Recent clashes in Ethiopia’s Tigray region have raised fears of a renewed conflict involving Ethiopia and Eritrea, following a previous war that claimed around 600,000 lives. Ongoing disputes between Tigray leaders heighten tensions, prompting calls for international diplomatic intervention to avert further violence. France warns its citizens in Tigray to prepare for emergencies amid escalating hostilities.
Concerns are escalating regarding potential renewed conflict in Ethiopia’s Tigray region due to recent clashes between rival factions. These tensions threaten to disrupt the fragile peace established following the devastating 2020-2022 war that resulted in approximately 600,000 fatalities. Analysts and locals highlight that the ongoing disputes between interim leader Getachew Reda and Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) leader Debretsion Gebremichael may escalate further.
The situation intensified on Tuesday when forces loyal to Debretsion gained control of Adigrat, Tigray’s second-largest city, which heightened fears of broader unrest. Getachew has accused factions within the Tigray Defence Forces of aiming to seize control across the region, raising alarms about potential violence.
Observers warn that Eritrea could leverage the ensuing chaos to initiate military actions against Ethiopia. Kjetil Tronvoll, a professor at Oslo University, stated that tensions between Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki have created a precarious environment for escalating conflict.
International diplomatic efforts are underway, with the United States, Britain, Japan, and the European Union urging all involved parties to de-escalate tensions and engage in dialogue to avert violence. The UN has joined this call, emphasizing the need for immediate diplomatic intervention to stabilize the region.
France has issued travel advice for its citizens in Tigray, recommending they prepare emergency supplies amid rising clashes in Adigrat and the regional capital, Mekele. The deteriorating relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea, marked by historical hostilities, have worsened post-Tigray war, with Eritrea accusing Ethiopia of conducting aggressive campaigns.
While Getachew’s administration has sought support from the Ethiopian government, he clarified that the request does not pertain to military assistance. However, a response from Addis Ababa regarding the situation remains pending.
The situation in Tigray is precarious, with escalating tensions between rival factions posing risks of renewed conflict. This mirrors previous devastating clashes that have led to substantial loss of life. International powers are advocating for dialogue and de-escalation to prevent violence, while local leaders navigate the complexities of factional disputes and external pressures. The uncertainty looms large, as historical animosities between Ethiopia and Eritrea threaten to reignite.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
