Ethiopia is facing renewed fears of a major conflict after Tigrayan forces launched an offensive against federal positions, threatening the fragile peace established following the country’s devastating 2020–2022 civil war.
Reports indicate that forces associated with the Tigray People’s Liberation Front seized airports and targeted government positions in neighbouring Afar and Amhara regions.
The escalation follows months of deteriorating relations and comes as several armed organisations have announced an alliance opposed to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s government.
Previous War Left Deep Scars
The previous conflict between federal forces and Tigrayan fighters caused widespread displacement, destruction and humanitarian suffering.
A peace agreement ended large-scale fighting in late 2022, but disputes surrounding implementation and political control have continued.
Renewed military operations therefore raise concerns that Ethiopia could return to a conflict from which many communities have not fully recovered.
Wider Horn Already Unstable
The regional context makes the latest escalation particularly concerning.
Sudan remains embroiled in war, Somalia faces continuing security challenges, while relations involving Ethiopia and neighbouring Eritrea have experienced periods of tension.
Another prolonged Ethiopian conflict could create additional displacement and economic disruption across the Horn of Africa.
International attention is therefore likely to focus on whether diplomatic engagement can prevent the latest fighting from widening.
