Passenger flights between Ethiopia's capital, Addis Ababa, and cities in the northern Tigray region have been cancelled amid fears of a return to conflict, with reports of clashes in one area.
Ethiopian Airlines, which operates nearly all routes in the country, sent passengers text messages announcing the cancellations due to unplanned circumstances. Neither the airline nor the government has provided further comments on the situation.
A BBC reporter in the main city of Tigray, Mekelle, confirmed the news via airport staff who were instructed not to report for duty.
The peace agreement signed in 2022 to end the brutal civil war in Tigray has been deteriorating, with increasing tensions regarding disputed territories ahead of national elections in June.
There are reports of clashes between government forces and Tigray fighters in a contested area, raising concerns of renewed conflict. The Ethiopian government has mentioned that disputes will be settled through a referendum; however, many displaced individuals currently living in camps may not have a say.
Reports indicate new military movements in Tigray, highlighting fears of escalating violence as relationships between the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) and the government continue to strain.
Buses remain a transportation option between Addis Ababa and Tigray, though they may face disruptions following the flight cancellations.
As the TPLF aimed to reverse its previous classification as a terrorist organization, the electoral board’s revocation of its political party license has complicated matters further, prohibiting them from contesting the upcoming elections.
This fragile situation is reminiscent of the devastating Tigray war, which saw an estimated 600,000 deaths and significant abuses reported across all involved parties.
