On Friday night, the pro‑government Tigray Peace Forces militia posted on X that it had seized full control of Mekelle Alula Aba Nega Airport, the main airfield serving the capital of Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region. The statement added that forces were now clearing the city of Mekelle.
Context of the conflict
The Tigray region has been the focus of intense fighting since a civil war erupted in 2020. After a fragile cease‑fire ended in 2022, the area remained volatile, with the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) maintaining a stronghold in the region. Late last week the TPLF launched a large‑scale offensive against Ethiopian federal troops, prompting a swift counter‑offensive by forces allied with the central government.
Strategic significance
Control of the Mekelle airport is strategically important for both logistics and symbolic reasons. The airport serves as a key gateway for humanitarian aid, military supplies, and potential civilian travel. Regaining it could enable the federal government to more effectively project power and deliver assistance to the region.
Reactions and verification
Reuters could not immediately verify the militia’s claim, and the Prime Minister’s Office did not respond to a request for comment at the time of publication. The TPLF was also unavailable for comment. Analysts note that while the claim, if accurate, would represent a major setback for the opposition alliance, the fluid nature of the conflict makes on‑the‑ground verification difficult.
Potential broader implications
Experts warn that renewed fighting in Tigray could risk expanding into a wider regional conflict, drawing in neighboring countries and further destabilizing the Horn of Africa. The situation underscores the fragile peace that has held since the 2022 cease‑fire and highlights the challenges facing Ethiopia’s federal government in restoring stability.
What’s next?
Observers will watch for additional reports confirming the airport’s status and any subsequent movements of forces in and around Mekelle. The international community continues to call for a negotiated settlement and unhindered humanitarian access to the region.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
