Ethiopian federal forces have retaken the Mekelle airport, the capital of Ethiopia’s Tigray region, according to local residents who spoke to the Associated Press. The airport was previously seized by Tigrayan fighters, leading to the suspension of commercial flights last month. The recapture marks a reversal of the Tigrayan control that disrupted air traffic in the area.
The Ethiopian government has been engaged in a conflict with the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) since November 2020. The Tigrayan forces took control of Mekelle airport in late December, cutting off access to the city and prompting the temporary halt of commercial flights. Local residents reported that Ethiopian forces launched an operation to reclaim the airport, restoring some level of normalcy to the region.
This development comes amid ongoing tensions between the Ethiopian federal government and the TPLF, which has been accused of separatist activities. The conflict has resulted in significant humanitarian concerns, with reports of displacement and limited access to essential services. The Ethiopian military has emphasized its commitment to restoring order and reasserting control over disputed territories. The situation remains fluid, with both sides continuing to engage in military and political maneuvers.
