Ethiopian Airlines confirmed the suspension of passenger flights connecting Addis Ababa with cities in the Tigray region, citing 'unplanned circumstances' via passenger notifications. This move comes as diplomatic observers note the steady erosion of the 2022 peace agreement intended to conclude the devastating civil war. Airport staff in Mekelle, Tigray's regional capital, reportedly received instructions not to report for duty, according to sources cited by the BBC.
Reports indicate fighting between federal forces and Tigray fighters in Mai Degusha, a contested zone within the western Tigray district. This area remains a significant point of contention, having been occupied by forces from the neighboring Amhara region during the conflict. The Ethiopian government has promised a referendum to settle the status of this fertile territory, though the voting rights of over one million displaced residents remain unresolved.
New military movements have also been observed in southern Tigray, heightening concerns among regional analysts regarding a potential escalation of hostilities. The Pretoria Agreement, brokered by the African Union (AU) to secure the truce between the government and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), established an interim administration for the region. Transport Chief Tadele Mengistu verified the flight cancellations to the BBC but lacked specific details regarding the cause.
The political relationship between the TPLF and the federal government has visibly deteriorated since the signing of the truce. Disagreements have plagued the process of reinstating the TPLF’s legal status as a political party, culminating in the national electoral board recently revoking its operating license. This administrative action prevents the TPLF from participating in the upcoming national elections scheduled for June.
Furthermore, internal divisions have surfaced within the TPLF itself, complicating the already fragile political environment in the region. The TPLF previously dominated Ethiopian politics for two decades until Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed consolidated power in 2018, leading to the TPLF's refusal to join the subsequent ruling coalition. The prior conflict resulted in an estimated 600,000 fatalities, with all parties facing accusations of widespread human rights abuses.
While air travel has ceased, ground transportation remains operational, although bus services between the capital and Tigray face potential disruptions in light of the aviation suspension. The lack of official commentary from Ethiopian Airlines or the government suggests a highly sensitive security or political development influencing immediate logistical decisions.
