The African Union Commission (AUC) has urged for immediate restraint in northern Ethiopia amid rising tensions. Renewed military activity, including the seizure of three civilian airports by Tigray forces, has sparked concern. The airports in Mekelle, Axum, and Shire were occupied, and federal personnel were detained by the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF). This development has disrupted civilian air services, adding to the region's instability.
AUC Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf expressed concern over the escalating situation. He noted that the seizure and occupation of civilian airports contradict the Agreement for Lasting Peace through a Permanent Cessation of Hostilities. This agreement was signed in Pretoria on November 2, 2022, between the Ethiopian government and the TPLF. The AUC views this agreement as crucial for sustainable peace, stability, and reconciliation in Ethiopia.
The AUC has warned that the latest developments risk undermining gains made since the Pretoria Agreement. Efforts to silence the guns in Ethiopia could be reversed if tensions continue to escalate. Youssouf called for the immediate resumption of direct talks under the framework of the Pretoria Agreement. He also urged Ethiopia's neighboring countries to support de-escalation, dialogue, and confidence-building measures.
To support renewed diplomatic efforts, Youssouf has asked former Nigerian President and AU High Representative for the Horn of Africa Olusegun Obasanjo to urgently engage the parties. Obasanjo's engagement aims to reduce tensions, promote dialogue, and safeguard the peace process. The AUC is working to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
The US Ambassador to Ethiopia, Ervin Massinga, has expressed disappointment over the TPLF's decision to launch a large-scale offensive. The US had sanctioned the TPLF earlier this year. Massinga stated that rejecting dialogue sponsored by the AU under President Obasanjo and engaging in an unwinnable fight does not benefit the people.
The conflict in northern Ethiopia has significant implications for regional stability. The AUC's call for restraint and de-escalation is a crucial step towards finding a peaceful resolution. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, and diplomatic efforts are underway to reduce tensions.
The situation in northern Ethiopia remains volatile, with ongoing military activity and disruptions to civilian services. The AUC and other international organizations continue to work towards a peaceful resolution. Key stakeholders are urging restraint and dialogue to prevent further escalation and promote stability in the region.
Key points
- The African Union Commission has called for an immediate de-escalation of tensions in northern Ethiopia.
- The seizure of civilian airports by Tigray forces has disrupted air services and sparked concern.
- Diplomatic efforts, led by Olusegun Obasanjo, are underway to reduce tensions and promote dialogue.
