Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed held a telephone conversation on Wednesday with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to discuss bilateral, regional, and multilateral issues, against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in the northern region of Tigray.

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“Our discussion is a testament to both countries’ commitment to transforming the enduring relationship between Ethiopia and the United States into a more strategic and practical partnership,” Abiy Ahmed stated in a message posted on his X account.

The Ethiopian leader added: “I welcome the assurance of continued U.S. support for Ethiopia and our shared commitment to advancing bilateral cooperation and addressing regional and multilateral priorities.”

The contact took place as the Ethiopian army and its allied militia, the Tigray Peace Forces (TPF), clash with rebels from the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) for control of the region.

Eritrean soldiers have reportedly been seen driving through northern Ethiopia. Eritrea denies that its troops have crossed the border town of Zelambessa.

Al Jazeera’s Malcolm Webb reports. pic.twitter.com/b0pnKkysHq

— Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) October 8, 2026

Addis Ababa has reported gains in Tigray following months of escalation and recurring drone strikes. The TPLF announced a “defensive war” on September 23, following the outbreak of heavy fighting.

The situation is further complicated by the formation of an alliance comprising seven rebel and opposition groups—including the TPLF—aimed at overthrowing the Ethiopian government.

These developments have reignited concerns regarding a potential new large-scale conflict, similar to the 2020–2022 war that left at least 600,000 people dead.

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