New fighting has erupted in Ethiopia’s Tigray region this week, reviving fears of prolonged instability as the African Union (AU) urges immediate dialogue. Clashes between federal forces and Tigrayan fighters broke out in Tsemlet – a disputed western zone still occupied by Amhara regional forces despite a 2022 peace deal requiring their withdrawal.
Travel Chaos & Cash Crunch
Mekelle resident Gebremedhin Tesfamichael told NewspaperAmigo: "Families are stranded with canceled flights and no explanations. Banks have 2,000 birr ($13) withdrawal limits – people can’t access savings for emergencies." Long queues now snake through cities as tensions rise.
AU Steps In
The AU issued a statement this Friday calling for restraint, pledging to "intensify efforts to facilitate talks" for lasting peace. Diplomatic sources warn the situation remains volatile, with airspace closures complicating crisis responses.
This marks the first major flare-up since the 2022 agreement ended a brutal two-year war. Analysts say unresolved territorial disputes and delayed disarmament have kept the region a tinderbox. 🔥
