The Amhara Fano National Force, under Menelik’s command, has been engaged in a fierce three-day battle with the Ethiopian National Defense Forces near Lalibela, a town steeped in magic and mystery, famous for its 11 rock-hewn churches carved out of monolithic stone over 800 years ago.
The Fano forces claim to have seized significant military equipment, including one DShK (Dishka) and over 10 Kalashnikovs. According to reports, the regime’s army is weakened and lacks fighting morale, with over 26 regime forces defecting to the Amhara Fano National Force in the past 15 days.
Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1978, is a significant cultural and spiritual hub, particularly for Ethiopian Orthodox Christians, who consider it a pilgrimage site with special spiritual and symbolic meaning, resembling Jerusalem’s holy city.
The conflict has spread to a wide area, including Gashena to Karma, Lalibela, and surrounding areas and mountains, such as Workamba Amora mountain. The situation remains volatile, with both sides exchanging heavy fire.
