By Wamala Sipirian
Published: October 8, 2026
Image caption: Ethiopian troops.
Image credit: ChimpReports
The United States Embassy in Ethiopia has warned its citizens about reports of possible long-range attacks targeting Ethiopian military installations, as renewed fighting in the country’s north raises concerns over security.
In a security alert issued Wednesday night, the embassy said it was aware of reports of possible attacks against military facilities on several occasions in October. It urged U.S. citizens to exercise caution and follow guidance from local authorities.
“U.S. citizens should accordingly exercise caution and follow the advice of local authorities,” the embassy said.
The alert did not identify those who might be responsible for the reported attacks, specify the military installations involved or disclose the weapons that could potentially be used.
Security situation deteriorates in northern Ethiopia
The U.S. warning comes amid renewed fighting and heightened tensions in northern Ethiopia.
On September 23, the United Nations secretary-general expressed concern over the seizure of airports in Mekelle, Axum and Shire, intensified fighting around Tigray and the spread of hostilities into neighbouring areas.
The UN called for restraint, protection of civilians and unhindered humanitarian access.
Federal forces subsequently retook Mekelle’s main airport on October 3.
The U.S. Embassy has advised Americans against travelling to the Amhara Region, including Lalibela, as well as Tigray and Afar “for any reason.”
Americans already in those areas were advised to leave if they could do so safely. Those unable to leave were urged to shelter in place until conditions improve.
The embassy also advised citizens to monitor local media and maintain contact with airlines regarding flight operations.
It warned that internet and telephone connectivity could be disrupted without notice.
“Internet and phone connectivity could be interrupted at any time,” the embassy said.
U.S. urges Americans to reconsider travel
While describing the security situation in Addis Ababa as stable, the embassy reiterated its recommendation that Americans reconsider travel to Ethiopia because of sporadic armed conflict and civil unrest in the northern parts of the country.
The renewed fighting also poses challenges to efforts to maintain the November 2022 Pretoria peace agreement between Ethiopia’s federal government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front.
The agreement established a framework for ending hostilities and pursuing accountability and reconciliation.
The United Nations has supported African Union efforts to reduce tensions, including engagement by former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo aimed at bringing the parties back to talks under the agreement.
Embassy warns of misinformation
The U.S. Embassy also cautioned that misinformation was making it more difficult to assess the security situation.
“Disinformation about the security situation in Ethiopia is rampant, particularly on social media,” the embassy said, urging American citizens to rely on credible news outlets for updates.
The embassy’s latest warning comes as fighting and instability continue to affect parts of northern Ethiopia, while diplomatic and regional efforts seek to prevent further escalation and revive dialogue under the Pretoria peace framework.