Pro-government forces claim capture of Mekelle airport in Ethiopia's Tigray

Pro-government forces in Ethiopia claimed on Friday they had recaptured the Alula Aba Nega International Airport serving Mekelle, the capital of the northern Tigray region. The Tigray Peace Forces militia, allied with the federal government, stated they had taken full control of the airport, located about 10 kilometers outside the city.

The claim could not be immediately verified by Reuters, and the Prime Minister's Office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), which leads the opposition in Tigray, could also not be reached for comment.

The airport is strategically significant as the main air link to Mekelle. It had reportedly fallen under the control of forces aligned with the TPLF after renewed fighting erupted in September, leading to the suspension of commercial flights.

This reported seizure comes as Ethiopian federal forces and allied militias press deeper into rebel-held territory, advancing towards Mekelle following gains in southern Tigray. Residents and diplomatic sources reported that government forces were approaching the regional capital, with shops and banks shutting amid fears of further fighting.

The conflict has also taken on a broader regional dimension. Ethiopia accused Eritrea and Egypt of supporting its opponents, leading to the expulsion of diplomats and severed diplomatic ties with both nations. The African Union has called for restraint and dialogue as the fighting spreads.