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MOGADISHU, Somalia (AP) - A senior leader of the Islamic militants who control much of southern Somalia urged people in neighboring Ethiopia on Monday to revolt against their government, calling it an oppressive regime led by an unpopular minority group.
Tensions between Ethiopia and the Islamic radicals have been mounting in recent months with reports that Ethiopian troops have entered Somalia to support the country's weak government. So far they have avoided direct clashes, but the rhetoric on both sides has been fiery, raising fears of a conflict that could engulf the Horn of Africa region.
"I dare you to come and fight us. Do not just run," Islamic leader Sheik Hassan Dahir Aweys said in a challenge to Ethiopia. He was addressing thousands of Somalis gathered in the capital, Mogadishu, to celebrate the end of the fasting month of Ramadan.
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