Tigray Rebels Withdraw from Regional Capital, Citing Civilian Safety

The Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) has stated it is temporarily pulling back its fighters from Mekelle, the capital of the Tigray region. This strategic move comes as conflict escalates between the TPLF and Ethiopian national forces, with fighting reportedly moving closer to the city.

Residents in Mekelle have corroborated the rebels’ withdrawal, with some reporting that pro-government forces now control the city. Mobile phone services, which had been disrupted, are said to be back online, bringing a sense of tentative normalcy to the area. One doctor in Mekelle noted that while calm has returned, there were brief instances of gunfire and looting shortly after the TPLF’s departure, potentially involving released prisoners or armed groups.

The TPLF chairman, Debretsion Gebremichael, described the withdrawal as a tactical decision, emphasizing that the group would continue its operations from elsewhere. This echoes a similar strategy employed during the 2020-2022 civil war, where the TPLF shifted to guerrilla tactics after losing control of Mekelle.

The renewed fighting in Tigray, Afar, and Amhara regions has sparked international concern about further destabilization in the Horn of Africa. Diplomatic efforts are underway, with leaders from Egypt, Eritrea, Somalia, and Sudan meeting to discuss the conflict and regional stability. These leaders called for respect for national sovereignty and the peaceful resolution of disputes.

Ethiopia has accused neighboring countries, including Egypt and Eritrea, of supporting the Tigray rebels, allegations that have been denied. The United Nations has also expressed alarm, highlighting the severe disruption to humanitarian efforts and urging all parties to ensure safe access for aid.

This latest conflict unfolds against the backdrop of the devastating civil war that concluded in 2022 with a peace agreement. However, recent months have seen a deterioration in relations, with both sides accusing each other of violating the accord. The TPLF has also recently formed an alliance with other armed groups aiming to challenge the current Ethiopian government.