Ethiopia Conflict Escalates
Renewed Fighting and Regional Tensions Across Ethiopia Deepen Humanitarian and Political Crisis
Anonymous
Key Points
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On September 23, Tigrayan forces reportedly seized Mekelle’s regional airport from federal police. Ethiopian Airlines subsequently suspended flights to Mekelle, Axum and Shire, citing “the current situation” without providing further details.
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The International Committee of the Red Cross said its engagement with armed groups in Ethiopia is conducted through informal, bilateral humanitarian discussions rather than structured training, focusing on protecting civilians, the wounded and sick, people no longer fighting, and humanitarian and health workers.
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The ICRC emphasized that its contacts with armed groups do not constitute political recognition or endorsement, but are intended to secure safe humanitarian access to conflict-affected communities, particularly in remote areas.
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Separate from the conflict developments, Ethiopia and Pakistan agreed in January 2025 to establish regular bilateral political consultations covering trade, aviation, agriculture, technology and education; direct Ethiopian Airlines flights between Karachi and Addis Ababa were also described as strengthening connectivity.
Fighting has erupted across multiple regions of Ethiopia, with violence reported in Tigray, Amhara, and Oromia. Critical Threats reports that Ethiopian rebels have launched a large-scale offensive that may mark the start of a renewed full-scale war in northern Ethiopia. In Amhara alone, violence spread across more than 21 districts across 11 zones, with reports of civilian casualties, abductions, and drone strikes.
The conflict reflects deeper tensions over regional autonomy and representation that remain unresolved. The Hill Times notes that Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who won the Nobel Prize in 2019, was at war with Tigrayan militia within a year of receiving it. The new fighting threatens to deepen Ethiopia's humanitarian and political crisis, with multiple armed groups now announcing alliances to challenge the federal government.
Tigrayan Forces Seize Airport, Airlines Suspend Flights
On September 23, Tigrayan forces reportedly seized Mekelle's regional airport from federal police. Critical Threats reports this marks a significant territorial gain for rebel forces. Ethiopian Airlines responded by suspending all flights to Mekelle, Axum, and Shire, citing "the current situation" without providing further details about safety concerns or timeline for resumption.
Drone Strike Kills Fighters, Civilians in Tigray
Tigrayan military sources alleged that an Ethiopian federal drone strike hit a secondary school, killing three fighters and wounding seven others. A local official gave a different account, saying four civilians died and one was injured in the same incident. The Ethiopian federal government has not yet responded to either allegation or provided its version of events at the school.
Armed Groups Form Coalition to Challenge Government
A coalition of armed groups operating in Amhara announced an alliance aimed at removing the federal government and establishing a transitional administration. The announcement signals a coordinated effort to challenge Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's authority across multiple regions. Kansas.com reports that the Tigray People's Liberation Front, the largest political party in northern Ethiopia's Tigray region, is facing internal discord as it enters this new conflict with the federal government.
Red Cross Maintains Neutral Dialogue With All Sides
The International Committee of the Red Cross said it maintains confidential, bilateral humanitarian discussions with both state and non-state armed forces in Amhara and Oromia. The ICRC emphasized these contacts do not constitute political recognition or endorsement of any group. Instead, the goal is to secure safe humanitarian access to conflict-affected communities, particularly in remote areas where civilians face severe shortages of aid.
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