Israel Warns Citizens Against Travel to Ethiopia's Tigray Region Amid Renewed Conflict

The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a stern travel warning for its citizens concerning Ethiopia, specifically urging them to avoid the northern Tigray region due to escalating armed conflict. The advisory comes as fighting has resumed in northern Ethiopia, prompting the ministry to recommend that Israelis completely refrain from traveling to Tigray until further notice.

In response to the deteriorating security situation, Ethiopian Airlines has suspended flights to three airports in the region: Mekelle, Axum, and Shire. The timeline for resuming air service to these locations remains uncertain.

For Israelis currently in Tigray, the Foreign Ministry advises minimizing non-essential movement, avoiding public gatherings, demonstrations, military installations, and conflict zones. They are also encouraged to remain in secure locations whenever possible. The ministry highlighted potential road blockages, communication disruptions, and changes to exit routes from the region.

Consequently, Israelis are cautioned against independent travel between cities or attempting to leave Tigray without first verifying the safety of their route and destination. The Israeli Embassy in Addis Ababa requests that all Israelis in the region promptly report their location and contact details, and update this information as needed. Emergency contact numbers for the embassy and the Israeli Foreign Ministry's situation center are provided.

Tigray is identified as one of Ethiopia's most volatile areas, and the recent outbreak of hostilities has impacted both resident and foreign safety, as well as regional air travel.