Tigray Residents Stock Up as Fears of Full-Scale War Resurface
Residents in Ethiopia's Tigray region stock up on essentials amid rising fears of renewed conflict as clashes escalate between federal forces and TPLF.
POLICY WIRE — Mekelle, Ethiopia — Residents in Ethiopia’s Tigray region are hoarding food, cash, and essential supplies, fearing a return to large-scale warfare after recent military confrontations between the federal government and Tigrayan forces.
The Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) has announced an alliance with six other armed groups, signaling a potential escalation in hostilities. Meanwhile, Ethiopian Airlines has suspended all flights to Tigray following reports that Tigrayan fighters seized control of airports in the region.
Earlier this week, Tigrayan authorities claimed they were forced into a “defensive war” after drone strikes targeted their territory. The TPLF also accused the federal government of launching an “open invasion” of Tigray, while Ethiopian officials condemned the TPLF for initiating a “large-scale offensive” that could destabilize the region.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
