Ethiopian forces enter historic city of Aksum after weeks of intense fighting
The Ethiopian government has confirmed that their troops have entered the historic city of Aksum in northern Tigray, with reports suggesting Eritrean forces are withdrawing from key areas following significant losses.
Ethiopian forces have expanded their control in Tigray, entering the historic city of Aksum after weeks of intense fighting in the northern region. Allied fighters claim to have pushed rival Tigrayan forces out of several strategic towns, paving the way for further advances.
According to sources close to the pro-government militia, the Tigray Peace Force (TPF), Eritrean troops have retreated towards the border following significant losses sustained during the fighting. The extent of these casualties remains unclear, with claims of heavy Eritrean losses being disputed by the Eritrean government.
The TPF has accused Eritrea's military of suffering substantial losses in recent battles, but Eritrea's Information Minister Yemane Gebremeskel dismissed these allegations as false. The Tigray Peace Force maintains that Eritrean forces are withdrawing from key areas in response to Ethiopian advances.
Independent monitors have confirmed the entry of Ethiopian government forces and their allies into Aksum, while rival Tigrayan fighters remain entrenched in surrounding mountainous regions.
Residents caught between warring forces are experiencing dire living conditions, as Zalambessa has been without electricity and running water for a week.
The absence of basic necessities is exacerbating anxiety among those trapped in the conflict zone, with some residents expressing deep concerns about their safety.
Independent monitors have confirmed that Ethiopian government troops are advancing into Tigray, while rival fighters remain entrenched in surrounding mountainous regions.
Reports from ACLED indicate that Ethiopian tanks and heavy artillery have been moving towards the Eritrean border, sparking fears of a potential conflict between the neighboring countries.
Reports have been emerging that Ethiopian forces are expanding their control in Tigray, as the region's militia claims Eritrea has suffered losses in the ongoing conflict.
The involvement of external actors in the conflict remains unclear, with Khartoum and Cairo denying any role in the fighting. Meanwhile, the Tigrayan People's Front (TPF) is supporting Ethiopia's federal government in its campaign against the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), which has been linked to the rebels.
The Ethiopian military has reportedly advanced into several key towns, including Adwa and Adigrat, recapturing them without a fight. Additionally, there are reports of their presence near Rama, on the border with Eritrea.
Facts based on reporting originally published by Al Jazeera.
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