Ethiopian federal forces have regained control of the main airport in Mekelle, the capital of the northern Tigray region, according to multiple sources on October 3. The recapture of Alula Aba Nega Airport marks a significant setback for a rebel alliance led by Tigray’s ruling party, which has been engaged in intense fighting with the federal government and its allied forces since late September.
The recent clashes represent the most serious escalation in violence since the civil war that engulfed the region from 2020 to 2022. The conflict has raised concerns about the potential for the fighting to spread beyond the Tigray region, threatening to destabilize the broader Horn of Africa.
Reports from an individual familiar with developments in Mekelle and a humanitarian source confirmed federal troops had taken control of the airport. An additional resident of Mekelle, speaking anonymously due to security concerns, corroborated the military’s capture of the airport and indicated ongoing gunfire was audible near the city center.
The federal government’s move to reclaim this strategic location underscores its intention to regain influence in Tigray, where opposition forces had maintained a stronghold since the end of the previous conflict. The renewed fighting underscores the fragile nature of peace in Ethiopia’s northern regions and highlights the ongoing challenges in achieving lasting stability.
No official statement has been released by Ethiopian authorities or the rebel alliance regarding the current status of the airport or broader developments in Mekelle. Meanwhile, humanitarian organizations continue to monitor the situation closely amid fears for civilian safety and potential displacement due to the resurgent violence.