Ethiopia: In Tigray, tensions rise between Addis Ababa and the TPLF, UN calls for 'de-escalation'
Tensions escalate between the Ethiopian government and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), prompting the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to call for urgent measures to de-escalate the situation.
In the Tigray region of Ethiopia, rising tensions have been observed between the federal army and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), with accusations flying from both sides regarding preparations for renewed conflict. Following a series of violent confrontations, the atmosphere is charged, reminiscent of the brutal civil war that lasted from November 2020 to November 2022.
The United Nations has responded to the escalating situation by urging immediate action for de-escalation. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker TΓΌrk emphasized the necessity for both parties to take urgent steps towards peace to prevent the situation from deteriorating further. His remarks underline the heightened urgency as tensions push the region closer to the brink of another war.
The issue at hand is significant not only for the Tigray region but for Ethiopia as a whole, where stability has been elusive. The implications of renewed conflict could destabilize the broader Horn of Africa, affecting relations with neighboring countries and humanitarian efforts in the region. It is a critical moment for leaders and international bodies to engage proactively to avert a humanitarian crisis as fears of war loom once again.