Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region is facing a fresh period of uncertainty after fighters and leaders of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) withdrew from Mekelle, the regional capital, as federal government forces and allied fighters advanced into the city.
The withdrawal follows a sharp escalation in fighting that began on September 23, reviving fears that Ethiopia could slide back into a wider conflict only a few years after the devastating Tigray war ended with a peace agreement in 2022. Ethiopian government forces have since pushed toward Mekelle, while the TPLF has acknowledged that its forces temporarily moved out of the city.
Government-allied forces subsequently entered parts of Mekelle after taking control of the city’s main airport. Residents and humanitarian sources reported seeing federal troops and allied fighters in different parts of the regional capital. Communication difficulties, however, have made it challenging to independently verify developments across the city.
The situation has also raised concerns about public order. Reports from residents indicated that some government offices and police facilities were left without security personnel during the withdrawal, while looting was reported at several locations. The developments have added to fears among civilians who are still recovering from the consequences of the previous war.
The latest confrontation carries significance beyond Tigray. Ethiopia’s relations with neighbouring Eritrea have deteriorated sharply, with Addis Ababa accusing Eritrea of supporting opposition forces. Eritrea has rejected the accusations. Ethiopia has also accused Sudan and Egypt of supporting the opposition alliance, claims that both countries deny.
The renewed fighting is particularly concerning because Tigray remains deeply affected by the 2020–2022 conflict, which caused widespread displacement and severe humanitarian suffering. The return of hostilities threatens to disrupt recovery efforts, civilian movement and essential services in the region.
International concern is growing as the conflict develops. The African Union has called for restraint, while the United States has urged Ethiopia and Eritrea to avoid actions that could further destabilise the Horn of Africa and return to dialogue.
For now, the withdrawal from Mekelle represents a significant setback for the TPLF, but it does not necessarily signal the end of the confrontation. With regional rivalries deepening and armed groups remaining active, the central challenge for Ethiopia will be preventing the latest crisis from developing into another prolonged war.
The immediate priority remains the protection of civilians, restoration of essential services and creation of conditions for renewed political dialogue before the violence spreads further. Tap to read more 👉https://omg10.com/4/11934173