Ethiopia's federal military has retaken the main airport in Mekele, the capital of the Tigray region, according to three sources. The operation marks a significant shift in the ongoing conflict between government forces and a rebel alliance led by Tigray's ruling party.
The clashes erupted last week in northern Ethiopia, marking the most severe escalation of violence since the 2020-2022 civil war. Fighting has intensified in the region, with reports of heavy artillery and aerial bombardments. The airport's recapture is seen as a strategic move by the government to regain control over key infrastructure.
The conflict has raised concerns among regional actors, including Egypt, which is hosting a summit with Eritrea, Sudan, and Somalia to address rising tensions. The African Union has called for de-escalation and dialogue, urging all parties to engage in peaceful resolution.
The situation in Tigray has been marked by prolonged hostilities, with humanitarian concerns growing as access to aid remains restricted. The latest developments underscore the fragility of regional stability and the potential for further spillover effects.
The Ethiopian government has not yet issued an official statement on the airport's recapture, but military sources suggest the operation was swift and decisive. The rebel alliance has not commented publicly, though internal reports indicate they are regrouping.
Regional leaders are increasingly concerned about the conflict's impact on neighboring countries, with fears of a broader regional crisis. The upcoming summit in Egypt aims to address these concerns through coordinated diplomatic efforts.
