Drone strike hits Tigray TV building amid renewed conflict in northern Ethiopia

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia is witnessing fresh clashes as the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) and the federal government resume heavy combat, reminiscent of the 2020-2022 civil war that claimed an estimated 600,000 lives. The TPLF, now advancing in the north, has seized airports and launched attacks into neighboring Afar and Amhara states. A humanitarian source reported the fall of the Afar town of Erebti to the rebels after artillery bombardment, with at least 150,000 people displaced in Afar.

Army chief Field Marshal Birhanu Jula stated the opposing forces are organized and allied to serve external interests, emphasizing that neither the Shaebia (Eritrea) nor the TPLF can succeed alone without external support. The TPLF has allied with seven armed groups across the country, aiming to push southward towards Addis Ababa through Amhara, targeting supplies from Djibouti, a crucial international trade hub providing over 90% of Ethiopia's cargo, including fuel.

Tigrai TV, a major rebel communication channel, was hit by a drone attack on Sunday, damaging the building and causing it to go off-air. The federal government suspended the station indefinitely and banned other outlets from broadcasting its reports. Communications have been limited since Friday due to major disruptions in Tigray, hampering news coverage of the conflict.

The United Nations chief, Antonio Guterres, expressed concern over the reported use of drones and harm to civilians, warning the government about its significant military advantage. The conflict could potentially draw Eritrea into the fray, fearing Ethiopia's intention to invade and seize a direct access point to the Red Sea. The Pretoria Peace Agreement of 2022, meant to maintain a fragile calm, remains unimplemented, leaving displaced individuals without return options.