U.S. Embassy Warden Message
Conflict in Somalia
December 27, 2006

The U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa urges American citizens living and traveling in Ethiopia to exercise caution due to the December 24 announcement by the Ethiopian Government of military operations against the Council of Islamic Courts in Somalia.  Military engagements have occurred along the southeastern border of Ethiopia and within Somalia.  American citizens are reminded that the U.S. Embassy restricts travel of Embassy personnel to the Somali Region (Ogaden) of Ethiopia to a case-by-case basis, and strongly discourages travel to the Somali region if unrelated to humanitarian objectives.  Due to credible threats of possible reprisals from terrorist organizations, American citizens are advised to remain vigilant, avoid demonstrations or large gatherings, and to be cautious when frequenting prominent public places and landmarks. 

American citizens with questions or concerns may telephone the consular section of the U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa at 251-11-124-2424; emergency after-hours telephone: 251-11-124-2400; website: http://addisababa.usembassy.gov/. 

For the latest security information, Americans living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs internet website at http://travel.state.gov/, where the current Worldwide Caution, Public Announcements, and Travel Warnings can be found.  Up to date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., or, for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.  These numbers are available from 8 AM to 8 PM Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. Federal Holidays.)