Renewed Fears of Conflict Escalate in Ethiopia’s Tigray Region
Tensions are escalating in Ethiopia’s Tigray region with France warning against travel due to fears of renewed conflict following a previous devastating war. Despite a peace agreement in November 2022, instability continues as rival factions vie for power. The local population is apprehensive about potential violence, leading to international advisories for caution.
Tensions are escalating in Ethiopia’s Tigray region, prompting France to issue travel warnings. Tigray experienced a devastating conflict from 2020 to 2022, resulting in approximately 600,000 deaths, where local forces faced off against the federal government and allied militias, including Eritrean troops. Despite a peace agreement reached in November 2022, instability persists, and disputes among factions have intensified recently.
The federal government appointed veteran politician Getachew Reda as the head of an interim regional administration. However, he faces challenges from Debretsion Gebremichael, his former ally and head of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front. Recently, forces loyal to Debretsion seized control of Adigrat, Tigray’s second-largest city, escalating local fears of a return to conflict.
A local resident anonymously remarked, “The town is under renewed tension, the population fears a return to the bad old days of the war.” Getachew responded by suspending three generals of the Tigray Defense Forces, accusing Debretsion’s faction of attempting to dominate the region.
The French foreign ministry cautioned that ongoing clashes in Tigray, especially around Adigrat and Mekele, have necessitated discouragement of all travel to the region. French nationals were advised to prepare emergency supplies and to exercise caution. Getachew’s administration has reached out to the Ethiopian government for unspecified assistance, but federal authorities have yet to comment on the situation.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed acknowledged the fears plaguing Tigrayans, stating in February that they “still live in fear and terror amid rumors of war.” France also extended its travel advisories to the northern Afar region, underscoring the heightened tensions between Ethiopia and Eritrea.
In summary, the situation in Tigray remains precarious as tensions rise between rival factions following a recent power struggle. The warning issued by France highlights the potential for renewed conflict despite previous peace efforts. The local population is increasingly anxious about the possibility of violence returning, prompting international concern and calls for caution among travelers. The Ethiopian government’s response to requests for assistance remains unclear, indicating a complex and evolving landscape in Tigray.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
