The US State Department on Thursday imposed targeted visa restrictions on leaders of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) and their immediate families, accusing them of undermining peace efforts in Ethiopia.
“Rising tensions between Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) hardliners and the Ethiopian government have threatened to reignite the conflict in northern Ethiopia and undermine peace and security across the entire region,” reads a statement issued by the US government.
According to the statement, forces loyal to the TPLF – described as the “Tigray Security Forces” – were involved in direct fighting with the Ethiopian National Defence Force earlier this year, threatening the fragile post‑war calm in northern Ethiopia.
Spokesperson for the Department of State, Tommy Pigott, said “pursuant to his authority under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, Secretary Rubio is taking steps to impose visa restrictions on hardline members of the TPLF and their immediate family members.”
The statement said Tigray Defence Forces fighters clashed with Ethiopian National Defence Forces earlier this year, marking their first direct confrontation since the 2020-2022 conflict that pushed the region to the brink of famine.
“Hundreds of thousands of civilians across northern Ethiopia have already fled their homes, fearing a return to war,” according to the statement.
It said the US will continue to stand with the people of Ethiopia, including those in Tigray, who seek to live in peace and dignity.
The spokesperson said the United States reaffirms its commitment to using all available tools to expose and hold accountable TPLF officials and others who threaten peace and stability in the region.
MG/jn/APA