Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has said his government seeks dialogue, not conflict, even as fears of renewed fighting grow in the Tigray region.
Federal troops have reportedly been massing near the northern border, while Tigrayan forces have also positioned themselves, raising alarm over the potential for another outbreak of violence.
Tigray previously experienced a devastating war from 2020 to 2022, during which federal forces, militias, and Eritrean troops fought rebels from the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). The conflict claimed an estimated 600,000 lives.
Speaking in Tigrinya, Abiy said some TPLF members were blocking efforts for negotiation and were “not ready to make even a small compromise.” He stressed that Ethiopia wants problems resolved through peaceful dialogue rather than war.
The TPLF, however, has accused the federal government of preparing for a military campaign against the region. Its second-in-command, Amanuel Assefa, warned that the group sees federal actions as a step toward war.
Abiy also addressed concerns about Eritrea, which has a history of tense relations with Ethiopia and was accused of supporting the TPLF.
He warned that Eritrea would not be allowed to destabilize the country and any attempt would be met decisively.
With troops on both sides of the border, the situation remains tense, though the prime minister continues to call for negotiation as the preferred path forward.
