Tigray Forces Seize Airport in Northern Ethiopia, Residents Describe 'Psychological Trauma'

Local forces in Ethiopia's Tigray region have taken control of the airport in Mekelle, the regional capital, according to residents. The move has led to the suspension of flights to the area, with Ethiopian Airlines stating that it had ceased operations due to the "current situation" in Tigray.

The airport seizure follows a series of reported drone strikes in Tigray. With the latest incident in Alamata killing at least 14 people and injuring 22 others.

The town's mayor, Mogos Shiferaw, reported that more than five drones and one fighter jet had carried out over 20 strikes in the area, beginning at around 03:30 on Tuesday.

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Mogos Shiferaw described the drone strike as having caused significant psychological trauma in Alamata. With many residents left in a state of panic. He stated that all those killed and injured were civilians.

And accused federal forces of targeting two secondary schools, which he believed were being used by Tigrayan forces.

The US State Department's Bureau of African Affairs has issued a strongly worded statement condemning the drone strike in Alamata. Calling for a thorough investigation into the incident. The department has implored all parties involved to engage in constructive dialogue.

Seeking to de-escalate tensions and prevent similar incidents in the future.

A two-year war in Tigray ended in November 2022. However, tensions have since escalated, with both sides accusing each other of violating an African Union-mediated peace deal. The conflict has raised concerns about a return to civil war.

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In July, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed accused the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) of preparing for renewed conflict during an address to parliament. The TPLF had recently restored its pre-war administration, disbanding an interim government appointed by Abiy. There have also been reports of the TPLF forcibly recruiting young men to join its forces.

The Tigray conflict has sparked fears of a return to violence, with both sides struggling to implement the African Union-mediated peace deal. The situation remains volatile, with ongoing tensions and allegations of violations by both parties.

The US State Department's stern rebuke of the drone strike has further intensified the global chorus calling for restraint among all parties involved. As the international community holds its collective breath, anxiously awaiting a peaceful resolution to the escalating standoff.