Understand
Eritrean troops move deep into Ethiopia's Tigray region as fighting escalates
Overview
Eritrean soldiers have crossed into northern Ethiopia and moved deep into the Tigray region as fighting intensifies between the national army and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF). Residents report seeing military convoys carrying troops and heavy weapons heading towards central Tigray. This renewed conflict follows the breakdown of the 2022 peace deal, the formation of a new alliance of armed groups in September, and a recent severing of diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea.
Key points
- Eritrean troops have crossed into northern Ethiopia and moved towards areas experiencing clashes between the national army and TPLF forces.
- Residents in Adigrat and Edaga Hamus reported seeing numerous trucks carrying Eritrean soldiers and heavy weapons.
- Fighting broke out two weeks prior following months of tension and accusations between the Ethiopian government and the TPLF over violations of the 2022 peace agreement.
- Ethiopia recently accused Eritrea of direct military participation in the conflict, while diplomatic relations between the two neighbours were severed last week.
- The return of Eritrean forces has caused anxiety and distress among Tigray residents, recalling atrocities allegedly committed during the 2020-2022 civil war.