Tigray People's Liberation Front seizes Mekelle airport from police
Summary
Local forces in Ethiopia's Tigray region have seized control of the Mekelle airport from federal police, as tensions continue to escalate between the government and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF). Ethiopian Airlines has suspended flights to Mekelle and other nearby cities due to the "current situation" in Tigray. The seizure follows a recent announcement by the TPLF joining forces with six armed groups to challenge the government, raising fears of a renewed civil war after a devastating two-year conflict that ended in November 2022. The U.S. State Department has condemned drone strikes in the region, including one that targeted an aid convoy, calling for all parties to engage in dialogue and address the ongoing violence.
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Analysis
Ethiopia: Ethiopia is the federal republic in the Horn of Africa where internal tensions have flared in the northern Tigray region. The central government faces challenges from local Tigray forces, including airport takeovers and mutual accusations of violating the 2022 peace agreement. Federal responses have included reported drone operations in the area. Mogos Shiferaw: Mogos Shiferaw serves as mayor of the southern Tigray town of Alamata. He has reported to the BBC on recent drone strikes in the area, describing civilian impacts and attributing the attacks to federal forces. Ethiopian Airlines: Ethiopian Airlines is the national flag carrier of Ethiopia. It has suspended flights to Mekelle and other Tigray cities in response to the current security situation following the airport seizure. Tigray People's Liberation Front: The Tigray People's Liberation Front is the political party governing Ethiopia's Tigray region. It has seized control of the Mekelle airport from federal police and announced an alliance with six armed groups aimed at removing the federal government in Addis Ababa. These actions have intensified tensions and raised concerns of renewed conflict. Regional Tensions: Escalating disputes between the federal government and Tigray authorities have included airport seizures, drone strikes, and accusations of peace deal violations. International Response: The US State Department has condemned a drone strike on an aid convoy and urged all parties to pursue dialogue to resolve differences.
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