Ethiopian Opposition Party Alleges Seven Monks Killed in South Wollo Monastery Attack

July 24, 2026
By Mintesinot Nigussie

The Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Party (EPRP) has alleged that seven monks were killed and 10 others injured in an attack on Abbay Kidus Arsema Monastery in South Wollo, calling for accountability over what it described as continued violence against religious institutions. In a statement issued on Thursday, the opposition party said the reported attack took place while monks were engaged in prayer at the monastery in South Wollo Zone. EPRP alleged that the incident involved a drone strike but did not provide further details on the circumstances surrounding the attack.

The party linked the reported incident to what it described as a wider pattern of attacks targeting religious institutions, clergy members and worshippers over the past eight years. It alleged that Orthodox Christian institutions, including churches, monasteries and religious figures, have increasingly faced violence and intimidation. EPRP also referred to a previous incident in Mehal Saint district of South Wollo Zone, alleging that an artillery attack on Atrons Mariam Church killed seven deacons and monks, including the church administrator, and injured more than 15 civilians.

The opposition party said repeated attacks against religious sites and clergy members indicated organised targeting, while calling for investigations and measures to protect religious communities. The statement was issued as political parties and other stakeholders continue to debate the country’s national dialogue process. EPRP argued that continued reports of civilian casualties and attacks on religious institutions raised questions about the effectiveness of efforts aimed at addressing political tensions.

EPRP condemned the reported monastery attack and called on the international community to support efforts related to justice, human rights and civilian protection. As of the time of reporting, the government had not issued a statement regarding the alleged attack.

Source: FSX Business News