In Ethiopia’s Tigray region, internal factional infighting threatens to reignite conflict, leading to fears of renewed violence with Eritrea. A recent power struggle has seen international calls for dialogue, following a devastating conflict from 2020-2022 that claimed hundreds of thousands of lives. The stability remains fragile despite a peace agreement, with escalating tensions and military actions underway.
Fears of renewed conflict in Ethiopia’s Tigray region are escalating as infighting between rival factions threatens to destabilize the area. The region’s administration has sought assistance from the federal government following challenges to its authority, while international embassies advocate for immediate dialogue to reduce tensions. Tigray previously experienced a devastating conflict from 2020 to 2022, which resulted in approximately 600,000 deaths amid battles between local forces and federal troops supported by Eritrean soldiers.
Despite a peace agreement reached in November 2022, Tigray remains unstable, with recent rival faction disputes worsening, particularly between Eritrea and Ethiopia. Federal authorities appointed Getachew Reda as the head of an interim administration, yet his leadership is challenged by Debretsion Gebremichael of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front. Forces loyal to Debretsion have captured Adigrat, Tigray’s second-largest city, further igniting concerns among residents about a return to war.
Getachew has suspended three generals from the Tigray Defence Forces, alleging that a rival faction is attempting to dominate the entire region. Analysts warn of a potential invasion by Eritrea, noting that tensions have been escalating for two years. Historical rivalries, dissatisfaction with peace agreements, and international interests contribute to the precarious situation, with Kjetil Tronvoll stating, “We have been close to a new conflict between Eritrea and Ethiopia for the past two years.”
Ethiopia and Eritrea’s relations have fluctuated since Eritrea’s independence in 1993, characterized by a brutal war over territorial disputes claiming tens of thousands of lives. While Abiy Ahmed’s peace initiative in 2018 temporarily improved relations and earned him a Nobel Peace Prize, tensions have resurfaced post-Tigray conflict. Eritrea accuses Ethiopia of conducting aggressive campaigns against it, heightening fears of a possible outbreak of war.
A coalition of Western embassies, including the United States and European Union, has urged all parties to adhere to the 2022 peace agreement, emphasizing the importance of dialogue. Meanwhile, France has issued advisories for its nationals in Tigray, recommending they prepare emergency supplies and avoid travel due to ongoing violence. Getachew’s administration has requested assistance from the Ethiopian government, clarifying that military support is not part of their appeal, while authorities in Addis Ababa have yet to respond.
The situation in Tigray is precarious, with rising tensions among rival factions leading to fears of renewed conflict with Eritrea. The ongoing disputes and military actions, including the capture of Adigrat, heighten concerns for regional stability. Diplomatic efforts for dialogue are essential to prevent escalation, especially as historical rivalries and geopolitical factors compound the risks of war. External countries emphasize the need for peace and civilian safety amidst the unrest.
Original Source: www.france24.com
