Tragedy in Ethiopia: Militants Kill 37 Orthodox Christians and Burn Down an Ancient Church

In Ethiopia’s Arsi region, at least 37 Orthodox Christians have been killed in a series of brutal attacks by armed radicals. The extremists destroyed a century-old church and razed the homes of hundreds of believers, leading to a mass exodus of civilians from the region.

According to DNE Africa, citing data from local church authorities, the attacks took place in early June 2026. In the village of Tefa Kebele, militants completely burned down the Church of the Archangel Gabriel, which had a centuries-old history. As a result of the armed raids, more than 280 Orthodox families were forced to leave their homes. Eyewitnesses also report widespread looting and the theft of livestock in the settlements of Zedibu, Erech Michael, and Sunte Mariam.

Archbishop Abuna Elzae officially confirmed the mass killings and sent a report to the Primate of the Church, documenting the damage inflicted on the communities. In particular, in Kore Kufte, radicals damaged the Church of the Holy Savior, which was used to host guests and hold important religious events.

Church representatives expressed deep outrage at the slow response of security forces, who failed to prevent the massacre of civilians. Despite eyewitness accounts, government authorities stated that these incidents were not of a religious or ethnic nature. It is worth noting that these events are taking place against the backdrop of a UN initiative that previously established the International Day of Commemoration for Victims of Religious Persecution.