Fighting has resumed in Ethiopia’s Tigray region, with rebels seizing control of regional airports and engaging government forces in neighbouring Afar and Amhara. This escalation follows the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) forming a new alliance aimed at toppling Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s government. Observers fear that these clashes could lead to a wider conflict, reminiscent of the devastating civil war that resulted in an estimated 600,000 deaths and left over a million displaced.
The recent violence has prompted Ethiopian Airlines to cancel flights to key airports in Tigray, signalling the potential for increased isolation of the region. The TPLF’s resurgence raises questions about the effectiveness of the Pretoria Peace Agreement, which was supposed to bring stability after years of conflict. The Ethiopian government has accused the TPLF of collaborating with Eritrean forces, complicating the situation further.
As the TPLF prepares for a defensive battle, the implications of this renewed fighting extend beyond Ethiopia. The potential for a humanitarian crisis looms large, with many civilians caught in the crossfire. The international community is urged to monitor the situation closely, as the conflict could destabilise the Horn of Africa, impacting regional security and economic conditions.
This resurgence of violence highlights the fragility of peace in Ethiopia and the ongoing challenges faced by the government. With the TPLF’s new alliance and military actions, the situation remains precarious, and the consequences could ripple through the region, affecting not only Ethiopia but also its neighbours and international relations.
Source: DW News
