The United Nations Office of High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) recently reported that drone strikes by Ethiopian forces in the Amhara region have killed at least 20 civilians. The targeted areas included a school and a bus station, heightening concerns over human rights violations during the ongoing conflict. These strikes occurred amidst rising tensions between the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF) and allied militias, and the Amhara ethnic militia, Fano.

Investigations uncovered some of the most lethal attacks in early November. On November 9, a drone strike at a bus station in Waber resulted in 13 civilian deaths. Nearby, Fano militia were attacking ENDF camps. On November 6, a government-operated drone struck a primary school in Wadera, killing seven, including three teachers. It’s believed that Fano members had been using parts of the school.

Another attack on November 4 saw government forces shell Chuahit town, killing six and injuring 14, many in their homes. Earlier, Fano militia attacks on October 9 and 28 led to 21 deaths, including officials, in Alem Ber and the Jibayt district.

The UN Human Rights Office expressed deep concern over the impact of these attacks on civilians in Amhara. It stresses the need for all parties to avoid unlawful attacks and protect civilians, and for ENDF’s operations to adhere to Ethiopia’s human rights obligations.