Tensions between Ethiopia’s federal government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front have escalated sharply, with each side accusing the other of initiating hostile military action. Government officials stated that Tigrayan forces seized federally administered airports in the region and launched attacks in neighboring Afar and Amhara provinces. Tigrayan authorities countered that their forces were responding defensively following drone strikes against targets in Tigray.
The accusations mark a significant deterioration in a peace agreement that formally concluded a brutal conflict in November 2022. That two-year war resulted in an estimated 600,000 deaths according to African Union mediators and brought the region to the edge of famine. Despite international efforts at reconciliation and mediation, both parties have accused each other in recent months of violating the terms of the peace deal.
Recent military actions have included drone strikes and fighter jet operations against targets in Tigray. A strike on the southern town of Alamata on Tuesday killed at least 14 people and injured 22, according to local authorities who said civilians were struck. Ethiopian Airlines has suspended all flights to Tigray following the airport seizures, and residents reported that local forces assumed control of Mekelle’s airport from national police.
International actors have urged restraint and renewed dialogue. The African Union Commission’s chairperson called for immediate de-escalation and resumed talks, while the US State Department condemned military actions targeting civilians and humanitarian convoys. On Sunday, the Tigray People’s Liberation Front announced an alliance with six other armed groups aimed at removing the federal government in Addis Ababa, further escalating tensions and signaling potential for broader conflict.
Both sides have faced criticism over stalled implementation of key peace agreement provisions. The situation remains fluid, with each party maintaining its version of events while international observers express concern about a return to large-scale warfare.
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