The article discusses the historical and ongoing marginalization and dehumanization of the Oromo people in Ethiopia. Despite forming a significant portion of the population, the Oromo have faced political and economic repression, exacerbated by successive Ethiopian regimes. The article critiques Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, an Oromo, for failing to address these issues and instead perpetuating violence and repression against his own people. It highlights the need for genuine democratic reforms and the end of state violence to achieve lasting peace and stability in Ethiopia.

The Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF) has accused the Somali regional government of disinformation and downplaying the severity of the ongoing drought. The ONLF's statement follows accusations from the regional government that anti-peace forces are attempting to destabilize the region. The ONLF condemns the government's heavy-handed actions and neglect of humanitarian needs, calling for the release of political prisoners and an end to the targeting of political parties and civil society organizations. The situation in the Somali region remains tense, with potential for further escalation.

The Somali regional government accuses 'anti-peace forces' of attempting a coup and collaborating with terrorist organizations to destabilize the region. Despite efforts to address the severe drought, including significant financial allocations and aid distribution, the government faces criticism from opposition groups like the Ogaden National Liberation Front and Congress for Somali Cause for its inadequate response. The article highlights the regional government's call for support from security forces, media, and humanitarian organizations, while also addressing internal political tensions within the ruling Prosperity Party.

Bale in Oromia is grappling with a severe humanitarian crisis exacerbated by prolonged drought, viral disease outbreaks, state-sponsored and communal violence, and mass conscription of youth into the military. The region's historical resistance to central government control is seen as a contributing factor to its current plight. The federal and regional governments' response has been inadequate, leading to worsening conditions and dissatisfaction among residents. Humanitarian efforts are hindered by poor infrastructure and sporadic clashes, while inter-communal violence and political tensions further complicate the situation. Immediate and multi-layered responses are required to address the crisis effectively.

The article reports on the dire conditions and human rights abuses in Saudi migrant detention centres, particularly targeting African and Yemeni migrants. Saudi authorities have been conducting mass searches to confiscate communication devices to prevent images of the suffering from being broadcasted, especially during Ramadan. Detainees report overcrowding, lack of food, and abuse. Despite an agreement with Ethiopia to deport 100,000 Ethiopians, the centres remain crowded due to ongoing arrests. The European Union parliament condemned Saudi Arabia for mistreatment of migrants, and rights groups have reported abuse and deaths in these centres. Detainees have shared their experiences of extortion by prison officials and neglect by Ethiopian officials. The article also touches on the mental health issues faced by returnees to Ethiopia and the support provided by the IOM.

The article by Bileh Jelan for Addis Standard reports on the severe drought affecting East Bale zone in the Oromia region of Ethiopia. Residents, including Aliyi Sheik Osman and Fatima Siraj, describe the lack of government support and insufficient aid in the face of this climate-induced crisis. The drought has been worsened by marginalization, poor governance, and corruption. The region has experienced the worst drought in decades, with millions in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Somalia facing life-threatening food and water shortages. FEWS NET and FAO data indicate that the drought is exacerbated by climate change, desertification, and land degradation. The article highlights the stories of individuals and families who have lost their livestock and livelihoods, and the community's efforts to support each other. Despite the dire situation, regional government officials claim to be coordinating sufficient responses, which is contradicted by the experiences of the affected residents. The article underscores the need for better governance and effective aid distribution to address the crisis.

The Somali region, particularly the Dawa zone, is experiencing severe drought, leading to the death of thousands of livestock and threatening a humanitarian crisis. Residents are facing water shortages and displacement, with many moving to larger cities. The regional government and aid agencies are providing water trucks, but the situation remains critical. The Ogaden National Liberation Front has called for more attention to the crisis, which is being overshadowed by the war in northern Ethiopia. Immediate assistance is needed for over 2 million people in the region.

Ethiopia forms a new government amid multiple crises, including the absence of Tigray state and an incomplete electoral process. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed is re-elected, and new speakers for both houses are appointed. The ongoing conflict with the Tigray People's Liberation Front has led to significant diplomatic isolation, with the US imposing sanctions and calling for a ceasefire. The electoral process faced numerous irregularities, and major opposition parties boycotted the elections. The new government faces challenges in addressing internal conflicts and restoring international relations.

Ethiopia forms a new government amid multiple crises, including the absence of Tigray state and an incomplete electoral process. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed is re-elected, but the formation of the government occurs against a backdrop of ongoing conflict in Tigray, diplomatic isolation, and internal political disputes. The US and other international bodies criticize the electoral process and call for inclusive dialogue. The new administration faces significant challenges, including potential sanctions and the need for a negotiated ceasefire with Tigrayan forces.

The Somali region branches of the Ethiopian Citizens for Social Justice (Ezema) and Freedom and Equality Party (FEP) have withdrawn from the second round of the 6th national elections, joining the Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF). The parties cited the use of stolen election materials, lack of additional polling stations, and the merging of the electoral board with the government structure as reasons for their withdrawal. They accused the ruling Prosperity Party (PP) of benefiting exclusively from election materials and processes, making it impossible to have free and fair elections.

Sudanese authorities seized a shipment of 72 boxes of Russian-made weapons from Ethiopian Airlines, which the airline claims were legal hunting guns with proper documentation. The Empowerment Removal Committee in Sudan, responsible for dismantling the former regime, seized the shipment, alleging it was intended for criminal activities. Ethiopian Airlines clarified that the shipment was held for verification and released after legal clearance, amidst rising tensions between Ethiopia and Sudan over border disputes and the GERD dam talks.

USAID mission director Sean Jones accused TPLF forces of looting food aid and damaging warehouses in Amhara, while also blaming Ethiopian federal and Eritrean forces for similar thefts in Tigray. He defended USAID against accusations of collusion with TPLF, explaining that aid might fall into the hands of armed groups through various means. Jones highlighted USAID's extensive humanitarian efforts in Ethiopia and called for an end to hostilities to ensure the continuation of aid operations.

Two opposition political parties, the Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF) and Hibir Ethiopia Democratic Party, have called for an unconditional ceasefire and inclusive national dialogue to address ongoing conflicts in Ethiopia. The ONLF emphasized the need for mediation and international community involvement, while Hibir Ethiopia Democratic Party highlighted the importance of dialogue over military solutions. These calls align with the US stance, as reiterated by USAID chief Samantha Power during her visit to Ethiopia, advocating for an end to hostilities and the initiation of reconciliation talks.

The US government has called for the restoration of the status quo ante and an end to the nine-month military hostilities in Tigray to facilitate aid delivery to over five million people in need. The US humanitarian chief emphasized the need for all parties to cease hostilities and allow humanitarian access. The US State Department reiterated these calls, urging the opening of humanitarian corridors. The federal government of Ethiopia has resisted international requests to open new aid corridors, citing existing routes as sufficient. The visit by US officials is part of a broader diplomatic push by the Biden administration to resolve the conflict, with concerns about ethnic cleansing and hopes for negotiations between the Ethiopian government and Tigrayan forces.

The United States, through State Department spokesperson Ned Price, has called for an urgent ceasefire without preconditions in the Tigray region of Ethiopia, urging all parties to engage in inclusive political dialogue and ensure unhindered humanitarian access. The conflict, which began in November 2020, has spread to the Afar and Amhara regions, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. The Ethiopian federal government and Tigrayan forces continue to exchange blame over the blockade of aid. European Union's Josep Borrell criticized the Ethiopian government for using food as a weapon of war, while Ethiopian officials defended their actions. The situation is further complicated by the displacement of tens of thousands of people and ongoing violence. USAID Administrator Samantha Power is expected to visit Ethiopia to discuss the crisis with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.

Violence erupted again at the border between the Afar and Somali regions, with the Somali regional government accusing Afar Special Forces and a group called 'Uguguma' of violence and implementing the TPLF's agenda. The Somali government criticized the federal security forces for failing to protect civilians. The Freedom and Equality Party of the Somali region condemned the violence and called for swift action. Casualty figures are unknown, but Somali residents protested by blocking a key corridor. The Afar regional government dismissed the Somali government's claims as propaganda, focusing instead on the conflict with TPLF forces.

Over 50,000 people have been displaced due to ongoing fighting between Afar regional forces and Tigrayan forces, with Tigrayan forces taking control of several towns. The Afar regional government, echoing calls from the Amhara region, has urged residents to stay vigilant and support security forces. The conflict has led to road blockages and heightened tensions, with federal forces preparing to respond. Efforts to contact regional officials for comments were unsuccessful.

The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission is closely monitoring the situation of 21 detained staff members and journalists from Ethio-Forum and Awlo Media, including Bekalu Alamrew and Yayesew Shimeles, who were arrested by federal security forces between June 30 and July 2, 2021. The EHRC has urged authorities to follow due process and release the detainees if no court orders justify their arrests. Despite the Federal Police confirming the release of four detainees, the EHRC is concerned about the lack of access to the remaining detainees for their lawyers and families, and the absence of a court order. EHRC Commissioner Daniel Bekele emphasized the importance of due process to maintain trust in the legal system and announced the commission's intention to visit and monitor the detainees' conditions. This follows a crackdown on Tigrayan civilians in Addis Abeba amid concerns of ethnic profiling.

The UN Security Council supported African Union-led negotiations over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam dispute, urging Ethiopia, Egypt, and Sudan to resume talks. Ethiopia began filling the dam's reservoir for a second year, which Egypt and Sudan oppose, viewing it as a threat to their water sovereignty. Ethiopia's Water Minister Seleshi Bekele defended the dam's benefits for Ethiopians lacking electricity and called for negotiations under the AU. Egypt's Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry warned of existential threats posed by the dam's unilateral filling. Ethiopia's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Dina Mufti deemed the UNSC's stance a significant diplomatic success for Ethiopia.

Somaliland held parliamentary and local district elections on May 31, 2021, across all six regions, with over one million registered voters. The elections, which had been postponed several times since 2005, saw 1,020 candidates vying for parliamentary and local municipality seats. The Ministry of Interior restricted movements to ensure a smooth election process. The elections are seen as a step towards international recognition and the strengthening of democracy in Somaliland. The three main political parties participating were Kulmiye, Waddani, and UCID. Biometric voter registration was used, and separate voting booths were provided for men and women. Voters expressed hope for international recognition and the development of the country post-election.

Egypt and Sudan have completed preparations for the 'Nile Protectors' joint military training exercise scheduled in Sudan from May 26 to 31, 2021. The exercise aims to exchange military expertise and enhance cooperation. Meanwhile, tensions remain high between Ethiopia, Egypt, and Sudan over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), with Ethiopia affirming that the second filling of the dam will proceed as planned. Ethiopia criticizes Egypt and Sudan for internationalizing the issue and undermining trust, while emphasizing the importance of African solutions to African problems.

The Somali Regional State, once praised for its peace under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, faces election-related controversies and serious human rights violations. The region has seen police violence, border clashes, and political instability. Opposition parties, including the Ogaden National Liberation Front, have accused the ruling Prosperity Party of manipulating voter registration and intimidating opponents. Human rights concerns have resurfaced, with reports of poor prison conditions and mistreatment of detainees, including juveniles, under the current regional leadership. The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission has highlighted these issues, urging immediate action.

Renewed violence in the Amhara region has led to the establishment of a command post by the Federal Ministry of Defense, encompassing North Shewa, South Wollo, and Oromo Special Zones. The conflict, attributed to the Oromo Liberation Army by the Amhara regional state, has resulted in significant property destruction, displacement, and loss of life. Witnesses report intense violence and attacks by armed groups, with federal and regional security forces deployed to restore order. The Ethiopian Institution of Ombudsman criticized the Amhara regional government's failure to manage the conflict, while various organizations classified the violence as ethnically motivated. The National Movement of Amhara accused Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed of complicity in the violence.

Fighting has resumed in the Oromo Special Zone of the Amhara region after a brief lull, with reports of violence involving Amhara and Afar Special Forces. The conflict, which began after an imam was killed, has led to casualties, property damage, and displacement of residents. The Oromo Prosperity Party accused Amhara Special Forces of inciting violence, while the Amhara Prosperity Party refuted these claims and blamed the group 'OLF-Shene'. Sa’eed Mohammed, a local official, confirmed the involvement of Afar Special Forces and described the dire situation in the affected areas.

The Amhara and Oromia chapters of the ruling Prosperity Party (PP) are engaged in a dispute over the recent violence in the Oromo Special Zone and North Shewa Zone of the Amhara Regional State. The Amhara Prosperity Party (APP) accuses the Oromia Prosperity Party (OPP) of making false claims about the involvement of Amhara Special Forces and blames the violence on the OLF-Shene and TPLF groups. Both regional administrations are working to restore peace, with efforts led by elders and religious leaders. The situation in the affected areas is reported to be relatively stable, though tensions remain.

The Oromia Regional State chapter of the ruling Prosperity Party accused the Amhara Regional State of inciting violence in the Oromia Special Zone, condemning attacks on Oromo civilians and calling for justice. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed urged for calm and dialogue, emphasizing the need to protect all citizens regardless of ethnicity. The conflict, described as ethnically and religiously motivated, has resulted in casualties and property damage. Eyewitness accounts and statements from various officials highlight the complexity and longstanding nature of the tensions.

Ongoing violence in the Oromia Special Zone and North Shewa Zone in the Amhara region has resulted in an unspecified number of casualties and significant property damage, including the burning of a mosque and a church. The conflict, which began on March 19, 2021, involves Amhara residents backed by Amhara Special Forces and Oromo residents. The Amhara Regional State blames the Oromo Liberation Army and remnants of the TPLF for the violence, while local witnesses accuse the Amhara Special Forces of initiating the conflict. Federal forces have been deployed to restore order, and investigations are ongoing.

Yemen's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has requested Ethiopia to send a special aircraft to repatriate the bodies and survivors of a fire at a detention center in Sana'a, which killed and injured many Ethiopian migrants. The letter emphasized the lack of medical facilities in Yemen due to prolonged conflict and criticized the International Organization for Migration (IOM) for not fulfilling its duties. The IOM confirmed the fire's devastating impact and mentioned challenges in accessing the injured due to increased security. The Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has yet to respond to the request.

Over 350 Ethiopian migrants are reported to have perished in a fire at a detention center in Sana'a, Yemen, according to a community organizer. The fire broke out on March 7, with more than 170 injured. While the IOM has not confirmed the death toll, it has dispatched teams and medical supplies to assist. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia is monitoring the situation and plans to investigate. Witnesses claim the fire was started by Houthi militias after detainees protested and refused recruitment to fight. Human rights abuses against Ethiopian migrants by Houthi rebels have been previously reported by Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International. The IOM is working to resume voluntary returns for migrants to Ethiopia.

The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission reported that crimes against humanity were committed during the violence and security crisis in Oromia Region following the death of musician Hachalu Hundessa on June 29, 2020. The unrest resulted in 123 deaths and over 500 injuries, with 76 deaths caused by security forces. The report highlighted the need for a comprehensive national strategy to prevent atrocity crimes and address the root causes. It also criticized the security forces for their response and the disproportionate use of force in some instances.

Afar and Somali regional states in Ethiopia have exchanged serious accusations following renewed violence that resulted in numerous civilian and security force casualties. Both regions have issued statements blaming each other and external 'anti-peace destructive forces' for the violence. The Somali Regional State accused Afar Special Forces of attacking its camp, while Afar Regional State accused Somali forces of declaring war and fostering anti-peace elements. Both regions have called for peace but provided little detail on the nature of the attacks.

Hassan Moalim, vice chairman of the Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF) and head of the party's Addis Ababa office, has resigned from his position and party membership, citing deep-rooted fractures and lack of good governance within the party. Moalim, who has been with ONLF since 1991, expressed his frustration over failed attempts to resolve internal conflicts and maintain party unity. His resignation highlights ongoing issues within ONLF, a historic rebel group that signed a peace agreement with the Ethiopian government in 2018. Attempts to reach ONLF chairman Abdirahman Mahdi for comments were unsuccessful.

Debretsion G/Michael, TPLF Chairman and Tigray Regional State vice president, calls for a national dialogue involving all political parties and Ethiopia's nations and nationalities. He criticizes the federal government led by the Prosperity Party for attempting to establish an authoritarian state and for its actions against Tigray. Debretsion emphasizes the need for an inclusive dialogue and rejects any closed-door discussions between TPLF and the federal government alone. He also criticizes the Ethiopian Inter-Faith Council for their previous silence on crises affecting Tigray and stresses that Tigray will not initiate war but will not relinquish its rights.