UNCLAS ADDIS ABABA 003392

SIPDIS

SENSITIVE
SIPDIS

DEPT FOR: D, P, M, DS, S/CT, CA, INR, AF/EX AND DS/IP/AF

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: ASEC ET SO
SUBJECT: ADDIS ABABA EAC REVIEWS SECURITY SITUATION AFTER ETHIOPIAN
MILITARY ACTION IN SOMALIA


1. (U) On December 26, the Emergency Action Committee (EAC) met to
review the general security situation in Ethiopia as well as post's
general security posture. The following offices were represented at
the EAC: Charge, A/DCM, PE, DATT, USAID, USAU, CONS, RMO, ORA, CDC,
MGT, GSO, A/PAO, MSG and RSO.


2. (SBU) The EAC discussed the following issues:

-- The ongoing situation between Ethiopia and Somalia;

-- Related security concerns, including the general security
situation within Addis Ababa and the rest of Ethiopia.


3. (U) Between December 24-26, the Government of Ethiopia (GOE)
publicly acknowledged (septel) sustained military operations in
Somalia against extreme elements of the Council of Islamic Courts
(CIC).


4. (SBU) The general consensus of the EAC was that it was too early
to determine possible fallout/impact of these events as it pertains
to the general security situation within Addis Ababa and the rest of
Ethiopia. Based on a review of relevant tripwires, and the lack of
any security incidents associated with the GOE's recent
announcement, the EAC decided against issuing a general travel
warning advising against travel to Ethiopia. The current situation
in Addis Ababa remains normal and permissive.


5. (SBU) The EAC approved the preparation of a general warden
message for approval by the Department, advising the public of
Ethiopian military operations along the border and in Somalia, and
repeating cautionary information from the Consular Information
Sheet.


6. (SBU) The RSO will carefully examine our already strong security
posture, and make any necessary adjustments accordingly. In the
coming days, we hope to begin work on extensive physical security
improvements to the highly visible and accessed gate to the Embassy
compound.


7. (SBU) The EAC agreed to meet and review the security situation
again before the New Year holiday as necessary. Developments will
be reported accordingly.

WILGUS