Full Breakdown
Israeli Tourists Rescued from Combat Zone in Ethiopia’s Tigray Region
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Rescue Operation in Tigray
The Israeli Foreign Ministry announced that a group of 45 Israeli tourists stranded in the Tigray conflict zone was rescued and moved toward Addis Ababa. According to the ministry, the mission was delayed because security conditions deteriorated, but intensive activity by Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, the ministry and the Israeli Embassy in Addis Ababa enabled the operation. Helicopters evacuated a second contingent of roughly 25 Israelis, including elderly travelers, while about 20 others reached a safe city overland with the assistance of Ethiopian military forces. The ministry said it will continue to accompany and assist the Israelis until they arrive safely in the capital.
Background to the Renewed Conflict
Fighting between the Ethiopian federal army and Tigrayan separatist forces has recently intensified, spilling into the neighboring Afar and Amhara regions. The flare-up is described as the most severe since the Tigray war ended in 2022; the earlier war began in November 2020 between the federal government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF)). Recent developments include Tigrayan forces seizing airports, canceling civilian flights, cutting communications networks and deploying drones. Seven armed groups across Ethiopia have united against Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s government, and Addis Ababa has accused neighboring Eritrea of aiding the opposition.
Participants and Numbers
- 45 Israeli tourists – split into two groups: ~20 reached safety overland; ~25 rescued by helicopter.
- Ethiopian military – provided overland escort and secured the evacuation zone.
- Israeli diplomatic team – led by Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, coordinated with Ethiopian authorities and other relevant parties.
Official Responses and Next Steps
The Foreign Ministry thanked Ethiopian authorities for their “commitment to the efforts” and for the cooperation of other parties involved in the rescue. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar held a press conference in Jerusalem on September 8, 2026 to discuss the operation and reaffirm Israel’s intent to continue supporting its citizens in the region. The ministry indicated that the rescued Israelis will be escorted to Addis Ababa, where further assistance will be provided.