Ethiopia: Christians Targeted and Killed

Since September 2025, a series of attacks have targeted Ethiopian Orthodox Christians in the Arsi zone of the Oromia region. The violence escalated in Sherka district, where 144 people lost their lives, prompting condemnation from the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Ethiopia.

On October 24, militants, allegedly Oromo Liberation Army members, attacked Asebot Monastery in West Hararghe Zone, resulting in the death of Anbes Felate and critical injuries to his son, Betre Anbes. Coordinated attacks between October 24 and 28 claimed the lives of 41 Orthodox Christians, including a toddler and an 86-year-old.

In early November, three more individuals were killed, including a 10-year-old boy. In Merti district, at least five Orthodox Christians were killed while working on teff farms. Despite local residents’ appeals for help, the authorities have not responded effectively to the escalating violence in the region.

Since October 30, 2025, the Acting Synod under Abune Matthias has condemned the attacks, although not naming the perpetrators. However, local government officials deny the killings, claiming peace in the area. The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, with roots dating back to the fourth century, has faced increased persecution from various groups, including ethnic militias and extremist elements.

With an estimated 77.5 million Christians, Ethiopia remains home to the EOTC, a historical Christian community. The country’s religious landscape also includes Protestant communities, with Ethiopian Orthodoxy accounting for 44% of the population. Despite the rich Christian heritage in Ethiopia, ongoing violence, including ethnic clashes and state-sponsored aggression, continues to threaten believers.

The wider context of religious persecution in Ethiopia includes events like the Tigray Genocide of 2020-2022, characterized as genocide against Tigrayans during the conflict in northern Ethiopia. International reports have cited genocidal acts committed by Ethiopian forces and allies, adding to the challenges faced by Christians in the region.