Ethiopia: US Embassy Warns of Possible Long-Range Attacks, Says Avoid Three Regions

October 7, 2026 — The US Embassy in Addis Ababa issued a security alert on Wednesday. It says it is aware of possible long-range attacks on Ethiopian military installations on several occasions in October, and it tells Americans not to travel to the Amhara, Tigray or Afar regions. The embassy describes Addis Ababa as stable.

What the alert says

Do not travel to Amhara, which includes Lalibela, or to Tigray or Afar.
If you are there now: Leave if it is safe to do so, or shelter in place.
Addis Ababa: Described as stable.
Recommended actions: Avoid military installations, follow local media, review your personal security plan, and stay in touch with your airline about flight operations.
Communications: Expect possible internet and phone disruptions.

Advisory levels

United States: The State Department advisory for Ethiopia is unchanged at Level 3, Reconsider Travel, issued August 27, 2026. Today’s alert does not change the level.
United Kingdom: The Foreign Office last updated its Ethiopia advice on October 1, on the same theme of attacks on military installations.

What it means for airline travelers

Connecting through Addis Ababa is not affected by the alert, but check your flight status. The embassy specifically says to stay in contact with your airline.
Lalibela, Gondar, Bahir Dar and Aksum are in the regions the embassy says to avoid. Postpone side trips there.
Standby travelers: Domestic flights can be cancelled at short notice. Do not leave yourself dependent on a same-day domestic connection to reach your flight home.
Download what you need before you travel. A communications blackout would cut access to boarding passes and booking apps.
Register with STEP (US) or Registration of Canadians Abroad, and check whether your travel insurance covers regions under a do-not-travel warning.