Hundreds flee Ethiopia clashes as regional tensions rise

There are also worries that the fighting could escalate into a proxy conflict for the ongoing civil war in Sudan, with accusations that Sudanese factions are supporting opposing sides in Ethiopia.

Both the TPLF and federal authorities have blamed each other for the recent clashes. The TPLF-led regional administration accused the federal government of launching an "open war" in the Shererina area, violating the peace agreement and aiming to "subjugate and divide" the people of Tigray.

Minister Abraham Belay confirmed that clashes had occurred, accusing the "TPLF clique" of initiating the fighting and warning of "worse consequences" if it continued. He also called for dialogue and peaceful resolution.

While the exact death toll was unclear, Sudanese medical and local sources reported that civilians and wounded fighters crossed the border. Witnesses described hearing explosions, heavy gunfire, and aircraft throughout Saturday. Shererina, located in western Tigray, is a strategically sensitive area disputed between Tigray and the Amhara region since the civil war.