Ethiopian rebel forces withdraw from Tigray regional capital

Rebel forces in Ethiopia's northern Tigray region have temporarily withdrawn from the capital, Mekelle, following intense fighting with the national army, according to the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF). Concerns over civilian safety prompted the decision to relocate. Witnesses reported that pro-government forces now control the city, while TPLF fighters have left.

Mobile phone services have reportedly resumed in parts of Mekelle. The conflict has spread to the northern regions of Tigray, Afar, and Amhara, raising fears of further regional instability. The US Department of State has called for restraint and dialogue, while neighbouring countries Egypt, Eritrea, Somalia, and Sudan met in Egypt to call for respect for sovereignty and peaceful resolution of disputes.

The TPLF has joined forces with six other armed movements to remove Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's government. The Tigray conflict, one of the deadliest in recent years, claimed an estimated 600,000 lives and threatened famine. Ethiopia and Eritrea recently severed diplomatic ties over allegations of rebel support, and tensions remain high over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam on the River Nile.