Ethiopia Faces Renewed War Fears as Tigray Rebels Launch Offensive

Ethiopia is on the brink of renewed civil war as Tigrayan rebels have launched an offensive into neighboring Afar and Amhara regions, forming a new coalition aimed at overthrowing Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's government. This escalation follows a period of intense fighting between the Ethiopian army and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) from 2020 to 2022, which resulted in approximately 600,000 deaths. Both sides are now accusing each other of initiating the latest round of conflict, raising serious concerns about a full-scale resumption of hostilities.

Adding to the regional instability, Tigrayan forces have reportedly seized a key airport in Mekelle, the capital of the Tigray region, and there are reports of drone strikes. The Ethiopian army has stated it has repelled attacks and inflicted casualties, but the situation remains volatile. Meanwhile, in Morocco, early legislative election results indicate a low voter turnout, with a party close to the King leading, as economic frustrations grow amidst preparations to co-host the 2030 World Cup. South Sudan's president has also dissolved the government ahead of the country's first elections since independence in 2011, which have been postponed twice.