Ethiopia: Tigrayan fighters agree to ‘cessation of hostilities’
Al JazeeraSep 09, 2022
The Facts
Tigrayan rebels agreed on Fri. to an immediate cessation of hostilities, marking a turning point in the war in northern Ethiopia.
This came a day after the national government declared a unilateral truce in response to thousands of Tigrayans fleeing to bordering regions to seek help. Food aid hasn't been delivered since Dec.
The Spin
Establishment-critical narrative
The Ethiopian government is responsible for the crisis in Tigray. Ethiopian PM Abiy has denied Ethiopia's multiethnic nature and pushed Tigray into war in order to install a puppet government in the region. He has since imposed a blockade suspending key services and denying access to food, fuel and medical supplies. The international community must do more to condemn these actions.
Pro-establishment narrative
The Ethiopian government is focused on saving lives and reducing suffering. It has announced a unilateral truce and urged the international community to boost humanitarian contributions while working together with organizations to provide emergency aid. Tigrayan forces should withdraw from areas they've occupied in neighboring regions.
Cynical narrative
Both sides are to blame, as civilians are suffering the most in this conflict. Human rights abuses have been committed by both the central government and Tigrayan rebels, including war crimes and crimes against humanity.
