By GPC Correspondent
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has called for an immediate de-escalation of tensions in northern Ethiopia following renewed fighting, reports of civilian airport seizures and disruption of air services.
In a statement, IGAD said it was “gravely concerned” by the deteriorating situation and urged all parties to cease hostilities and exercise maximum restraint.
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“IGAD calls on the parties to cease hostilities,” the regional bloc said, warning against actions that could further endanger civilians or undermine the peace process.
The statement comes amid reports that Tigrayan forces have taken control of the airports in Mekelle, Axum and Shire.
Ethiopian Airlines suspended flights to the three airports on Wednesday, citing the “current situation in the Tigray region.”
The escalation follows months of deteriorating relations between Ethiopia’s federal government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF).
On September 21, seven armed groups, including the TPLF and Amhara Fano National Movement, announced an alliance seeking to remove Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s government, according to Reuters.
IGAD emphasized that the Pretoria Agreement, signed on November 2, 2022, remains the framework for addressing outstanding issues between the Ethiopian government and the TPLF.
“Its commitments must be upheld in full,” IGAD said, while urging the parties to “return to direct dialogue without delay.”
The African Union has also called for restraint and renewed negotiations. AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf said the Pretoria agreement remains the “cornerstone” of sustainable peace and has asked former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo to engage the parties diplomatically.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres separately called for maximum restraint, civilian protection and unhindered humanitarian access, warning that the escalation could lead to a broader conflict.
