20 Israelis Trapped in Ethiopia's Tigray Region Amidst Fighting

Twenty Israelis are currently stranded in Ethiopia's Tigray region due to ongoing internal conflicts between federal government forces and rebels. All airports in and around the combat zone are shut down, and road travel is deemed too dangerous. The trapped Israelis, along with 30 other foreign tourists, are in the city of Lalibela.

In an urgent appeal to the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Israelis described a dire situation characterized by shortages of food, fuel, electricity, and communication means. They expressed concern that this is a prolonged crisis rather than a temporary flight delay. The group fears a complete communication blackout, similar to what occurred previously in the Tigray area, which would hinder contact with the embassy and families in Israel.

Several individuals in the group are elderly and may require medical attention, with some suffering from asthma. The stranded Israelis and other foreigners are unable to determine safe travel routes, either by air or land, and are relying on the Israeli embassy and government to negotiate safe passage with Ethiopian authorities, Ethiopian Airlines, and local armed groups.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed it is leading intensive efforts, in coordination with the Israeli embassy in Addis Ababa and relevant parties, to monitor the situation and explore safe exit options. They stated they are continuously assessing possibilities based on security developments and conditions on the ground, prioritizing the safety and security of the Israelis.

An Israeli who was in Lalibela recounted that the group was instructed to stay at a hotel, where it was quiet. However, their guide decided to travel towards the capital, Addis Ababa. This decision led to a crisis, with some Israelis opposing the move. As their journey began, shells started falling nearby, forcing the group to seek shelter in another hotel. A mortar exploded nearby, killing a rebel fighter. The Israelis reported hearing numerous explosions and smelling gunpowder.