#Ethiopia #Djibouti #Asaita #Afar Sultanate #Ahmed Alimirah

Condemnation of Drone Attack by the Sultan of Afar

In a recent and heartbreaking event, Sultan Ahmed Alimirah of the Afar region has publicly condemned the security forces of Djibouti following a devastating drone attack. This incident, which took place on January 30, 2025, resulted in the death of eleven innocent villagers at the border between Djibouti and Ethiopia. Among the victims were women, children, and elderly members of the community who were reportedly unarmed and merely trying to survive in an already precarious environment.

The drone strike unfolded during the evening hours, lasting approximately four hours, in an area that has long been deprived of essential services such as clean drinking water, healthcare, education, and food. The Sultan's statement condemned the actions of Djibouti's security forces, which are said to have targeted civilians under the pretext of pursuing alleged terrorists. The Sultan asserted, "For decades, we have faced systematic persecution and state-sponsored violence from the Djiboutian government. This attack is a continuation of their ruthless strategy to undermine our community."

The Sultan highlighted the names of the civilians lost in this tragic event, noting that the deceased belonged to one of the most vulnerable populations who live in constant fear of violence. The names include individuals like Gamma Ali Orbiss, Kako Ali Orbiss, and three young children, underscoring the indiscriminate nature of this attack. Furthermore, several others were reported injured, including Maryam Mohammed Abdallah and Fatuma Camad Casasn, bringing the toll of devastation to more families.

In their statement, the Sultanate of Afar claims to possess tangible evidence of the drone strike, including graphic images of the victims. They have announced their readiness to share these findings with human rights organizations, investigative bodies, and international judicial authorities to ensure accountability. The Sultanate has called on these organizations and the global community to investigate this crime, visit the affected areas, and take concrete actions to end the ongoing atrocities against the Afar nomadic people.

The Sultan's heartfelt call for justice not only reflects the pain and suffering borne by the Afar community but also highlights the urgent need for international attention to the humanitarian crises evolving in this region. The tragic loss of lives and the systemic violence that has plagued the people of Afar demand a unified response from the global community. The Sultanate encourages individuals and organizations to engage in efforts to assist the Afar people in their time of need.

For further information regarding the drone attack and how to support those affected in Afar, individuals can reach out to [email protected]

As the world watches, it remains essential to advocate for the rights and safety of marginalized peoples facing unjust violence in their everyday lives. The Sultan of Afar has become a powerful voice against such tragedies, bringing attention to the plight of his people, and it is crucial that his calls for action resonate with broader audiences seeking justice and peace in conflict zones.