Tigray forces launch offensive against Ethiopian government

Live updates

1. 1h ago

   Tigray forces launch offensive and seize Mekelle airport

   Tigrayan leaders state that a new war with the Ethiopian government has begun as active fighting erupts in the region. Local forces have seized control of the airport in the Tigray capital of Mekelle, prompting Ethiopian Airlines to suspend all flights to three northern airports in the territory. Residents confirmed the airport seizure to the BBC, while the TPLF moved on critical sites after heading a new alliance. The outbreak marks a severe escalation in tensions and halts routine air transit to the northern region.

   Why it matters

   This development signals a dangerous return to hostilities between regional Tigrayan authorities and federal Ethiopian forces. Aviation disruptions cut off vital transport links to the provincial capital and surrounding areas. Observers and analysts track the TPLF movement toward critical sites following the formation of a new alliance.

   What is confirmed

   • Tigrayan leaders state that a new war with the Ethiopian government has begun as fighting erupts.
   • Ethiopian Airlines suspended flights to three northern Tigray airports.
   • Local forces seized Ethiopia's Mekelle airport in Tigray.

   Still unconfirmed

   • The TPLF moved on critical sites after heading a new alliance.

   What to watch next

   • Re-establishment of federal control over the Mekelle airport
   • Official statements from the Ethiopian government regarding the offensive
   • Further flight resumption updates from Ethiopian Airlines
   Sources used for this update (5)

   1. Reuters — Tigrayan leaders say new war with Ethiopian government has begun, as fighting erupts
   2. Al Jazeera — Ethiopian Airlines suspends flights to three northern Tigray airports
   3. apnews.com — Ethiopian Airlines cancels flights to Tigray capital as soldiers take over airport
   4. BBC — Ethiopia's Mekelle airport in Tigray seized by local forces, residents tell the BBC.
   5. ACLED — Ethiopia Conflict Alert: The TPLF Move On Critical Sites After Heading a New Alliance. A new phase of the next war?
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