Washington, D.C. — Representative Gregory W. Meeks, Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement regarding developments in Ethiopia:  

“I am deeply concerned that the war in northern Ethiopia continues to escalate dangerously, deepening the humanitarian crisis in Tigray. I condemn in the strongest terms the continued involvement of Eritrea in destabilizing Ethiopia and the role of all involved parties in targeting innocent civilians and prolonging this devastating war. The shocking deprivation of humanitarian assistance in Tigray and neighboring regions is one of the deadliest weapons of this war, where lifesaving ready-to-use therapeutic food supplies for severely malnourished children are nearly depleted and fuel stocks required for humanitarian operations are at critically low levels.   

“The warning signs for additional atrocities in Ethiopia are flashing red again, and the UN Security Council must immediately prioritize this issue. I am disappointed to hear the peace talks set to take place in South Africa have been delayed, and I urge the U.S. Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, Michael Hammer, the African Union, and all relevant interlocutors to press for a coordinated, transparent process that ensures all parties agree to cease hostilities and negotiate peace in good faith. I encourage all actors to avoid using these talks as a ruse to pursue a military solution to this war.   

“I am also deeply disturbed by mounting reports of surging violence, extrajudicial killings, and forced disappearances in Oromia and Benishangul-Gumuz, as well as armed conflict in Gambella, SNNP, and in the border areas of Somali and Afar regions. This widening crisis in Ethiopia calls for a new approach to a national dialogue, with strong and steadfast support from the United States and the international community. I commend the Biden Administration’s efforts in seeking a sustainable, peaceful resolution and mobilizing the international donor community to increase humanitarian assistance for Ethiopia and the greater Horn of Africa. I will continue to support all efforts to restore humanitarian access to northern Ethiopia and press for a productive, inclusive process toward reconciliation and lasting peace.”   

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