Concerns are mounting over the Ethiopian conflict where rebel groups have formed an unlikely alliance to launch an offensive against the capital, Addis Ababa.

The UN Security Council has expressed "deep concern" over the escalation of fighting in Ethiopia, calling for a ceasefire and the initiation of peace talks in the restive northern region of Tigray.

Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) rebels announce the capture of the northern Ethiopian town of Kombolcha, even as government forces launched an offensive to regain control over the strategic city of Dessie.

The Ethiopian military launches two airstrikes on rebel targets in Tigray, as part of a second round of bombardments in the war-battered region this week.

Fighting escalates between Ethiopia's national army and rebels from Tigray, days after Addis Ababa launched a new major offensive in the restive northern region.

The latest offensive comes days after Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed vowed to stand strong despite mounting global criticism over the war in Tigray.

Ethiopia's prime minister has been sworn in for a new term.

The UN has denounced Ethiopia’s decision to expel seven of its top officials from the country, warning that 5.2 million people are in need of urgent assistance in the restive Tigray region.

The Sudanese military says it has managed to fend off a border attack by Ethiopian forces.

Tigray rebels reject the African Union's appointment of former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo as a mediator in the Ethiopian conflict.