Infighting in Tigray raises fears of renewed conflict, with rival factions challenging authority. A peace agreement has failed to stabilize the region, and international embassies urge dialogue. Developments suggest that tensions between Ethiopia and Eritrea could trigger a new war, leaving the situation precarious and humanitarian assistance needed.
Concerns are escalating regarding the potential resurgence of conflict in Ethiopia’s Tigray region due to infighting among local factions. Analysts and residents reported that tensions are heightened as a rival faction has recently challenged the authority of the region’s administrator, prompting calls from international embassies for urgent dialogue to avert violence. The aftermath of the 2020-2022 conflict, which resulted in approximately 600,000 fatalities, remains fresh in the minds of the local population.
Despite a peace agreement in November 2022, instability continues to plague Tigray. Disputes among political factions have intensified, with friction between Eritrea and Ethiopia notably increasing shortly after the peace deal. In recent developments, Getachew Reda, appointed as the interim regional head, faces challenges from Debretsion Gebremichael of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front, who recently seized control of Adigrat, Tigray’s second-largest city. Local sentiments reflect fears of a return to a war-torn past.
Getachew Reda’s administration has accused the opposing faction of attempting to exert control over Tigray, leading to the suspension of three generals from the Tigray Defence Forces. There are apprehensions that Eritrea might exploit the turmoil to instigate an invasion, as stated by Kjetil Tronvoll, a prominent regional expert. He emphasized the precarious relationship between Ethiopia and Eritrea, warning that a new conflict could arise dependent on various geopolitical factors.
Historical relations between Eritrea and Ethiopia have been characterized by cycles of intense conflict and rapprochement since Eritrea’s independence in 1993. Following the bloody war from 1998 to 2000 over territorial issues, attempts for peace were made under the leadership of Abiy Ahmed, who received a Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts. Nonetheless, strained relations have surfaced once more since the conclusion of the Tigray war.
The risk of renewed hostility has prompted action from Western countries, with several embassies emphasizing the necessity to maintain peace and engage in diplomatic discussions. France has cautioned its citizens in Tigray to prepare for emergency situations and advised against travel throughout the region. As tensions rise, Getachew Reda has sought assistance from the Ethiopian federal government, clarifying that his requests were humanitarian rather than military. The federal authorities have yet to respond publicly to these appeals.
In summary, Ethiopia’s Tigray region faces mounting fears of renewed conflict amidst internal factional disputes and strained relations with Eritrea. Despite previous peace efforts, rising tensions indicate the possibility of further violence. Both local and international calls for dialogue have intensified as a means to prevent a resurgence of hostilities, with the situation remaining delicate as factions vie for control and historical grievances persist among the nations.
Original Source: www.france24.com
