Ethiopia: 'We Are Completely Isolated - Humanitarian Access Is Urgently Needed'

What the report says

The Fides News Agency, as republished by AllAfrica, reports that the Eparch of Adigrat, Tesfaselassie Medhin, has appealed for urgent humanitarian access to Tigray in northern Ethiopia, saying the area is effectively cut off. In the message, he described blocked communications, a lack of contact with the outside world, and worsening uncertainty for the local Church and population. The report is dated 1 October 2026 and is set in Adigrat, a city in Ethiopia’s Tigray region.

Medhin said the Church, its missions, clergy and religious remain in place and intend to keep helping people despite the isolation. He also noted practical problems affecting daily life, including the closure of banks and uncertainty over how schools and seminaries will continue operating. The message was reportedly sent with support from UNICEF, which continues to assist the Church and maintain limited contact with the outside world where possible.

The article places this appeal against the backdrop of renewed fighting in Tigray. It also notes that Pope Leo XIV, speaking at the end of the previous day’s General Audience, expressed concern about the violence and urged all sides to choose dialogue. The broader significance is the risk that deteriorating security and communication breakdowns could further obstruct aid delivery and deepen hardship for civilians.