The current conflict which began in 2014, is centered around three special Kebeles inhabited by ethnic Somalis from the Issa Clan.

[3][4] In 2014, the federal government, headed by the Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) redrew the boundary between the two regions.

The clashes, killing 300, were followed by massive protests in the Somali region, with roadblocks put on the only road out of the settlement, and the partial destruction of the Ethio-Djibouti Railways, where 95% of Ethiopia's maritime trade goes through.

[11] However, conflict flared up again on 9 November the same year, where fighting between local militias killed at least 18 people and injured at least 28 others in Dheymeed woreda, Sitti Zone.

[12] Days later, on 30 March, there were reports that Afar and Somali militia groups clashed around areas surrounding the road.