Rebel forces in Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region have announced a temporary withdrawal from the regional capital, Mekelle, as fighting with the federal army draws closer to the city.
The Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) said the move was prompted by concerns over civilian casualties.
Two Mekelle residents told local media that pro‑government troops now control the city and that TPLF fighters have abandoned the capital; one said mobile‑phone services appear to have resumed in parts of the city.
The decision marks a turning point in a conflict that has escalated over the last six months, after the TPLF joined six other armed groups in an alliance aimed at toppling Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.
Local diplomats warn that the fighting could destabilise the Horn of Africa, potentially drawing in neighbouring states. Ethiopia has recently severed diplomatic relations with Eritrea over alleged support for the rebels, and expelled a senior Egyptian diplomat in response to accusations of backing the opposition.
The U.S. Department of State has urged all sides to exercise restraint and seek dialogue, ahead of a diplomatic meeting in Egypt on Sunday that will bring together leaders from several Ethiopian neighbours.
For more context, see How fresh fighting in Tigray could spark wider conflict in Ethiopia.
