Tigray's Virgin Mary festival cancelled due to drone strike concerns

A women‑focused conference slated for next week in the city of Al‑Mansur has been called off after a series of aerial strikes hit the surrounding region on Tuesday. Organizers from the International Women’s Forum announced the cancellation, citing heightened security risks and the need to ensure the safety of participants expected from more than 20 countries. The event, which was to feature panels on gender equity, economic empowerment, and conflict‑resolution, had been promoted as a key gathering for civil‑society leaders and policymakers in the area.

Authorities confirmed that the strikes, carried out by military aircraft in response to ongoing hostilities, caused damage to infrastructure near the venue and prompted a temporary curfew. Local officials urged residents and visitors to remain indoors while security forces assessed the situation. The cancellation underscores the broader impact of the conflict on regional civil‑society activities, with organizers indicating they will explore alternative formats for the conference once conditions stabilize.