Fresh Conflicts Erupt in Afar-Somali Border, Sparking Human Rights Concerns Renewed violence has erupted in the border areas between the Afar and Somali regions of Ethiopia, raising alarm among human rights groups over the potential for civilian suffering. According to local reports, the clashes have escalated in recent days, with both sides accusing each other of initiating hostilities. The conflict has displaced thousands of people and disrupted livelihoods. Human Rights Watch, an international watchdog, has condemned the violence and expressed deep concern about the impact it is having on civilians. The group has documented reports of arbitrary arrests, torture, and summary executions, as well as the use of indiscriminate attacks against civilian areas. “These conflicts are causing immense harm to civilians,” said Laetitia Bader, Horn of Africa director at Human Rights Watch. “Both sides need to respect international humanitarian law and take immediate steps to protect civilians.” The border dispute between the Afar and Somali regions has a long history, stemming from competing claims over grazing land and water resources. The latest outbreak of violence has been fueled by tensions between the two communities, as well as political manipulation. The Ethiopian government has deployed troops to the affected areas to quell the fighting, but it remains unclear whether they will be able to contain the violence. The United Nations and other international organizations have called for an immediate ceasefire and a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Human rights groups have urged the government to prioritize the protection of civilians and ensure that those responsible for human rights abuses are held accountable. They have also called for humanitarian assistance to be provided to those affected by the fighting. The situation on the ground remains fluid, with the potential for further escalation of violence. It is crucial for all parties involved to exercise restraint and prioritize dialogue and peaceful solutions to end the suffering of civilians caught in the crossfire.Conflict in Afar Region Results in Casualties, Displacement, and KidnappingsConflict in Afar Region Results in Casualties, Displacement, and Kidnappings On Wednesday, a conflict erupted in the Adda Ado district of Afar region, leading to multiple deaths, displacement, and kidnappings. Witnesses reported that militias from the Sitti area of the neighboring Somali region attacked civilians at around 4:00 p.m. According to local sources, the attack resulted in over 30 fatalities. The militants also reportedly kidnapped several residents and took control of the area. This incident was unusual as the two regions do not share direct borders. A Somali region resident confirmed an increase in conflicts along the border, with militants from Afar reportedly entering Somali territory. The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) expressed concern over the renewed armed clashes and civilian casualties. The EHRC emphasized that it has received numerous reports of damage to property and other forms of harm. The regions had previously reached a ceasefire agreement in April 2024 through efforts led by the Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs. However, the EHRC called for further efforts and support from federal authorities to achieve an immediate cessation of hostilities. EHRC Deputy Chief Commissioner Rakeb Messele highlighted the spirit of the Eid al-Adha festivities as an inspiration to prevent further escalation and harm to civilians.New conflicts have erupted in the border areas of the Afar and Somali regions, causing widespread concern over civilian harm and suffering. The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has expressed alarm over the situation, calling for immediate action to protect civilians and prevent further escalation of violence. According to the EHRC, the conflicts have displaced thousands of people, destroyed homes and livelihoods, and resulted in numerous casualties. The Commission has received reports of arbitrary arrests, extrajudicial killings, and sexual violence, highlighting the urgent need for accountability and justice. The clashes have been attributed to various factors, including competition for scarce resources, land disputes, and historical grievances. The involvement of armed groups and the proliferation of weapons in the region have further fueled the violence. The EHRC has called on the Ethiopian government to take immediate steps to de-escalate the situation and prevent further human rights violations. The Commission has urged the government to conduct thorough investigations into the alleged abuses and hold those responsible accountable. International humanitarian organizations have also expressed concern over the deteriorating situation in the Afar and Somali regions. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has appealed for urgent humanitarian assistance to meet the needs of the displaced population. The ongoing conflicts have raised fears of a wider humanitarian crisis in the Horn of Africa. The EHRC and other human rights groups have urged the international community to provide support and pressure all parties to the conflict to respect human rights and seek peaceful resolutions.