Ethiopia - Deterioration of the situation in the Tigray region Ethiopia Conflicts Statement On : September 24th 2026 France is deeply concerned about the deterioration of the situation in northern Ethiopia and the Tigray region. In particular, it condemns the seizure of Mekelle, Axum and Shire airports and the attacks carried out on the Afar and Amhara regions by the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF). It calls on all the parties concerned to show the utmost restraint in order to spare civilians. It is essential to avoid a regional escalation. France reiterates its commitment to strict respect for international humanitarian law and reminds the parties of their obligations in terms of civilian protection and humanitarian access. In this regard, obstructing, diverting and attacking humanitarian aid is unacceptable. France is determined to support a credible path to the easing of tensions, and supports the mediation process led by the African Union and its high representative, Olusegun Obasanjo, with a view to the effective implementation of the Pretoria Agreement.