World powers notably the G7 group have said it is ‘strongly concerned’ by reports of human rights abuses in Ethiopia’s conflict-hit Tigray region.
The group, comprising of the UK, US, and the EU, called for the reported crimes to be investigated and those responsible to be held to account.
They also urged Eritrea to withdraw troops that are fighting alongside Ethiopia against forces in Tigray.
Both countries’ troops have been accused of numerous rights abuses.
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These include mass killings of civilians, sexual violence, looting, and the abuse of refugees. A BBC Africa Eye investigation has also uncovered evidence suggesting the Ethiopian military carried out a massacre in which at least 15 men were killed.
Eritrea has dismissed the accusations, while Ethiopia’s prime minister has previously denied that any civilians have been killed.
The conflict began in November after the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) captured military bases in the northern Ethiopian region. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed then ordered an offensive to oust the group.
The TPLF had been the ruling party in the area but fell out with Mr. Abiy over his efforts to increase the power of the central government.
Hundreds of civilians have been killed and tens of thousands displaced since the fighting began. Tigrayan forces, meanwhile, have also faced accusations of human rights abuses.
AFRICA TODAY NEWS, NEW YORK