Ethiopia rejects interference from international community over Tigray crisis

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has asked the international community to standby until the government of Ethiopia submits its request for assistance in the ongoing tigray crisis.

The prime minister said the country appreciates the concerns of the international community.

Mr Abiy said the country rejects any interference in its internal affairs and asked the international community to respect the fundamental principles of non-intervention under international law.

The statement comes amid concerns from the UN about possible war crimes after a threat by the Ethiopian army to start an assault on Tigray’s capital Mekelle.

A deadline set by the government for fighters in the region to surrender is due to expire on Wednesday.

Fighting between the government and regional forces in Tigray has been going on for three weeks.

Hundreds have reportedly been killed and tens of thousands have fled.