Ethiopia’s Tigray region is facing a renewed humanitarian and security crisis after federal government forces regained control of Mekelle, the regional capital, amid intense fighting.
Government forces and allied fighters entered Mekelle after Tigrayan opposition fighters withdrew from the city. The development has raised fears that Ethiopia could be heading toward another prolonged conflict only a few years after the previous Tigray war ended with a peace agreement.
The situation has become even more serious following reports of airstrikes and artillery fire in other parts of the region.
Fighting Spreads Beyond Mekelle
Humanitarian sources reported heavy fighting in northern Ethiopia following the government takeover of Mekelle.
At least 17 people were reportedly killed in air attacks northwest of the regional capital, according to information circulated among humanitarian organizations.
Another reported drone strike hit a displacement camp in Tigray, further raising concerns about the safety of civilians caught in the renewed conflict.
The reports have heightened fears that the violence could rapidly expand beyond the regional capital.
Memories of the Previous War
The renewed fighting is particularly worrying because Tigray endured a devastating conflict between 2020 and 2022.
That war resulted in enormous humanitarian suffering, displacement and destruction before a peace agreement brought major fighting to an end.
The return of large-scale military operations has therefore triggered concerns that previous gains made through the peace process could be lost.
Regional Consequences
The crisis also has implications beyond Ethiopia.
Relations between Ethiopia, Eritrea and other regional powers have become increasingly sensitive, while tensions surrounding Ethiopia’s access to the Red Sea remain a major geopolitical issue.
Any prolonged conflict could also complicate humanitarian operations and increase displacement across the Horn of Africa.
International Calls for Restraint
The renewed fighting has prompted calls for restraint and diplomatic engagement.
Humanitarian organizations are particularly concerned about civilians in areas where communication networks and access to essential services have been disrupted.
The ability of aid agencies to assess the situation is also being affected by insecurity.
What Happens Next?
The key question is whether the latest military developments will lead to negotiations or another prolonged conflict.
The government now has control of Mekelle, but that does not necessarily mean the conflict has ended.
With fighting continuing elsewhere in Tigray, the situation remains highly fluid.
