The United States Embassy in Addis Ababa has advised American citizens against travelling to Ethiopia’s Tigray and Afar regions amid a changing security situation and reports that Tigray Defense Forces have taken control of airports in Mekelle, Axum and Shire.
In a security alert, the embassy said Ethiopian Airlines had suspended flights to and from the three airports and that it had no information on when flight operations would resume.
The embassy has also prohibited US government personnel from travelling to the Tigray and Afar regions, while advising American citizens already in the areas to shelter in place until it is safe to leave.
Those in the affected regions have been urged to monitor local media for security updates, maintain contact with their airlines regarding flight operations and make contingency plans to leave.
The embassy further advised citizens to avoid crowds and review their personal security plans.
The US government warned that internet and telephone connectivity could be interrupted at any time, potentially affecting communication and access to emergency information.
The embassy has urged American citizens to review the US State Department’s travel advisory for Ethiopia for additional guidance and to contact the embassy for assistance if needed.
The US Embassy in Addis Ababa said it can be reached on +251 11 130 6000, while the State Department’s Consular Affairs offices are available on +1-888-407-4747 for calls from the United States or Canada and +1-202-501-4444 for calls from Ethiopia or other countries.
