Ethiopia’s federal government is reportedly deploying mechanized units to the Tigray region as political and security tensions continue to escalate, raising fears of renewed large-scale conflict.
According to Tigray Peace Force (TPF), an armed faction that broke away from the Tigray Defense Force (TDF), the Ethiopian Defense Force has moved heavy military equipment toward the region. TPF shared images on social media allegedly showing mechanized units en route.
The development comes amid reports of growing pressure from forces loyal to Debretsion Gebremichael, leader of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), who are accused of seeking to reassert control over the region.
Clashes were reported in Mehoni, South Tigray, where TDF’s 43rd Army allegedly opened fire on civilians, leaving at least five people wounded. Local accounts say most of those injured were young volunteers organized to maintain stability in the area.
Sources indicated the operation was aimed at arresting Colonel Halefom Mehari, commander of militia forces in Raya Azebo, who recently split from TDF forces loyal to Debretsion’s faction.
Regional political figures, including veteran politician Gebru Asrat, have criticized the federal government, accusing it of failing to act decisively against TPLF-aligned forces.
Tadesse Worede, appointed by Addis Ababa in April as interim president of Tigray, has also faced scrutiny. Critics allege he is either cooperating with or influenced by the pro-Debretsion camp.
In an interview with Ethiopia Media Services, Girmay Tsegay, deputy head of security for South Tigray zone, claimed that attempts by pro-TPLF forces in the south were tacitly endorsed by Tadesse’s administration. He further suggested that the group’s actions may be receiving backing from Eritrea.
Analysts warn that if federal troop movements escalate into direct confrontation with TPLF-aligned forces, Ethiopia could face a renewed war involving regional actors, including Eritrea.
Meanwhile, separate conflicts in Amhara and Oromia remain ongoing. Fano militias in Amhara have recently claimed territorial gains in several areas.
