Addressing the Defence Force media, Field Marshal Birhanu Jula described the "extremist" groups operating in Ethiopia, particularly in the Amhara and Oromia regions, as no longer posing a significant threat. The Amhara region, home to a prominent local militia known as Fano, has been embroiled in a prolonged conflict with the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF). Contrary to Field Marshal Birhanu Jula's claims, local media reports indicate escalating clashes in some areas this week. General Birhanu noted that the defense army is currently operating at only 10 percent of its capacity in the Amhara region. Claims by Fano that they captured three helicopters, tanks, and killed a military general were refuted as "false" by Field Marshal Birhanu Jula.

Source: Ethiopian News September 01, 2023 18:30 UTC