Possible reversal in fight for Ethiopia

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, October 4, 2026

Ethiopian federal forces and allied fighters have retaken control of Alula Aba Nega Airport in Mekelle, reversing the TPLF's hold since late September. This shift signals a potential turning point in the conflict but raises concerns about security in the city and the broader stability of the region amid ongoing violence and diplomatic tensions with Eritrea.

Ethiopian federal forces and allied pro-government fighters have reportedly regained control of Alula Aba Nega Airport in Mekelle, the capital of the northern Tigray region, sources with knowledge of the situation said on Saturday. The recapture marks a potential shift in the ongoing conflict between the Ethiopian government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), which had seized the airport on September 23.

While precise details about when and how the airport changed hands remain unclear, multiple residents and local observers indicated that TPLF fighters appeared to be withdrawing from the area. Reports from the city suggest uncertainty over the control of Mekelle itself, with federal troops not yet visibly present within the city center. The lack of security has raised concerns among residents about possible looting and lawlessness. “I am worried that lawlessness could spread in the city, and I am also afraid for my life,” one local said.

Communication disruptions, including severe internet and cellphone outages, have hampered independent verification of the developments and complicated assessments of the ground situation. An Ethiopian general, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that federal forces were in full control of the airport. However, neither the Ethiopian government nor the TPLF have officially commented on the reported change in control.

The airport’s recapture follows months of escalating fighting that have undermined a 2022 peace agreement intended to end a two-year war between federal troops, supported by Eritrea and allied militias, and the TPLF. The conflict has deeply destabilized the region, with the TPLF chair, Debretsion Gbremichael, continuing to openly challenge Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s government.

Meanwhile, federal forces are reportedly coordinating with the Tigray Peace Force, a breakaway faction from the TPLF aligned with the government, especially in the neighboring Afar region. Ethiopia is expected to rely on this force to maintain security in Mekelle should it secure the city.

In a related development, diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and neighboring Eritrea have sharply deteriorated. Ethiopia expelled ten Eritrean diplomats and announced the closure of its embassy in Asmara, while Eritrea has declared it will sever diplomatic ties. Ethiopian authorities accuse Eritrea of supporting the TPLF, an allegation Eritrea denies.

The recent military developments in Mekelle have drawn cautious attention from international observers. The African Union has urged restraint, warning that renewed hostilities could threaten the fragile peace process. Analysts highlight the political ramifications of the airport’s recapture, emphasizing that control over Mekelle alone may not resolve the broader conflict that continues to challenge regional stability.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.