The airport in Mekelle, Tigray, has reportedly been taken over by Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) forces, leading to a suspension of flights by Ethiopian Airlines. This development comes amid rising tensions between the TPLF and the Ethiopian government, raising concerns about a potential return to civil conflict following a two-year war that ended in late 2022.
Recent drone strikes in Tigray have resulted in civilian casualties, with local officials accusing federal forces of targeting schools. The TPLF has formed an alliance with other armed groups to challenge the government, further complicating the fragile peace established by the Pretoria Agreement. Both sides are facing criticism for failing to adhere to the terms of the peace deal.