Rising infighting within Tigray is threatening to reignite conflict, with calls for urgent dialogue from international embassies. The region struggles to stabilize post the devastating 2020-2022 war, while accusations and territorial disputes with Eritrea loom large. Regional leaders are urging support from the federal government amid escalating tensions, highlighting the fragile peace established in 2022.
Recent disturbances among rival factions in Ethiopia’s Tigray region have heightened fears of a resurgence of conflict, potentially involving Eritrea. Tigray’s administrator has sought aid from the federal government amid challenges to his authority and calls for urgent dialogue from international embassies aiming to alleviate tensions. The region previously experienced immense upheaval during an intense war from 2020 to 2022, which resulted in approximately 600,000 casualties, involving local forces, the federal government, and Eritrean soldiers.
Despite the peace agreement established in November 2022, Tigray remains unstable. Tensions have escalated among factions, particularly after strong disagreements arose between Eritrea and Ethiopia soon after the accord. The federal government appointed veteran politician Getachew Reda to lead an interim administration, yet he faces opposition from Debretsion Gebremichael, leader of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front.
In recent developments, forces loyal to Debretsion captured Adigrat, Tigray’s second-largest city, causing local residents to express fears of a return to a violent past. Getachew accused Debretsion’s faction of attempting to seize complete control of Tigray, leading to the suspension of three generals within the Tigray Defense Forces.
Concerns about potential Eritrean military actions have intensified, with experts noting that Ethiopia and Eritrea seem to be on the brink of renewed conflict. Professor Kjetil Tronvoll from Oslo University commented on the delicate situation, indicating that various factors, including dissatisfaction with the 2022 peace agreement, have exacerbated tensions. He stated that “the situation in Tigray can be the triggering factor.”
Since Eritrea’s independence in 1993, relations with Ethiopia have fluctuated, marred by a brutal war from 1998 to 2000 over territorial disagreements. Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Abiy Ahmed was recognized for his role in normalizing relations with Eritrea in 2018, but those relations soured following the conclusion of the Tigray war. Tensions escalated when Eritrea accused Ethiopia of conducting an aggressive campaign against it.
Statements from Western embassies emphasized the urgent need to avoid renewed violence, urging all involved parties to honor the 2022 Agreement. France has also advised its citizens in Tigray to prepare for emergencies, while travel to the region is discouraged due to ongoing clashes, particularly in cities like Adigrat and Mekele. Getachew has reached out for assistance but emphasized that he does not seek military support. Federal authorities have yet to respond publicly.
The situation in Ethiopia’s Tigray region suggests a precarious balance that could tip back into conflict, particularly with growing rivalries among factions and external pressures from Eritrea. Though a peace agreement was established in late 2022, regional instability continues to linger, with local leaders expressing concern over rising tensions. Urgent calls for dialogue from international entities imply the necessity of diplomatic efforts to prevent a return to war, highlighting the delicate nature of the region’s relations and power dynamics.
Original Source: www.france24.com
