Ethiopia blocked internet in Tigray after renewed clashes, isolating the region. The move echoes the 2020-2022 conflict that left communications cut off.

Ethiopia restricted internet access in the Tigray region on Friday after renewed fighting erupted.

Background

The conflict between Ethiopian federal forces and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front began in November 2020 and lasted two years. During that period, the region was largely isolated from the outside world, with limited telecommunications and no reliable news flow.

Internet shutdown

Government officials said the decision to block internet services was taken to protect national security and to prevent the spread of misinformation amid the fresh hostilities. Mobile networks and broadband services were ordered to cease operations at 0600 GMT, and satellite connections were reportedly jammed.

Humanitarian impact

The blackout hampers relief agencies that rely on digital communications to coordinate food deliveries, medical supplies and evacuation plans. Aid workers warned that the loss of connectivity could delay the distribution of emergency rations to displaced families already facing severe shortages.

Official response

The Ministry of Communications confirmed the restriction and added that services would be restored once security conditions improve. A spokesperson for the Tigray regional administration denied that the shutdown was intended to target civilians, stating it was a temporary measure aimed at safeguarding civilians from false reports.

Outlook

International observers called for the rapid restoration of internet access to enable independent verification of the situation on the ground. The United Nations office in Addis Ababa urged all parties to uphold the right to information, especially during active hostilities.

As fighting continues, the extent of the outage remains unclear. Analysts said that any prolonged disconnection could exacerbate the humanitarian crisis and complicate diplomatic efforts to negotiate a cease‑fire.