Health
Drone Strikes in Ethiopia’s North Threaten Fragile Health System
WHO warns that fresh drone attacks on civilians in Amhara and Tigray are pushing an already fragile health system toward collapse, as hospitals face staff and supply shortages.
American Impact Alliance News Desk2 minute read
Escalating Violence Hits Civilians
Fresh fighting between Ethiopian government forces and rebel groups resumed in September, ending almost four years of relative peace in Amhara, Tigray and Afar. Over the past weekend, drone strikes hit a displacement camp in Amhara, killing children and a newborn, while another strike in the town of Rama in Tigray killed several people who were trying to obtain food. The United Nations Secretary‑General has warned that the surge in attacks on civilians, including health facilities, raises the risk of wider destabilisation. WHO Director‑General Tedros said drone attacks and civilian casualties have become tragically frequent across Ethiopia.
Health Services Struggle Under Siege
Hospitals in the northern regions report acute shortages of health workers, essential medicines and equipment, and ambulance services are severely limited. Insecurity hampers the transport of life‑saving medical supplies to many hard‑to‑reach areas, jeopardising emergency care, maternal and child health services, and treatment for endemic diseases. Tedros warned that continued fighting could push the health system closer to collapse, leaving more people without access to essential care.
WHO Mobilises Medical Supplies
WHO and its partners are working around the clock to deliver additional medical supplies to all affected regions despite the dangerous environment. The agency acknowledges that insecurity makes shipments difficult, but it continues to prioritize getting drugs and other critical items to health facilities. Tedros called on all parties to protect civilians and health infrastructure, noting that peace is the best medicine, and reiterated the urgent appeal for a cessation of hostilities as a first step toward restoring health services.