Ethiopian conflict: TPLF forces withdraw from Tigray regional capital Mekelle

Rebel forces in Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region have said they have temporarily withdrawn from the regional capital, Mekelle, as fighting with the national army moves towards the city.

The Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), which has been running the region, said its decision to relocate was made because of concerns about risks to civilians.

Two residents in Mekelle told the BBC that pro-government forces now control the city and TPLF fighters have abandoned it. One resident also said mobile phone services appear to have resumed in parts of the city.

Fighting has erupted in recent weeks between the TPLF and allied groups and government forces in parts of the northern regions of Tigray, Afar and Amhara.

The development marks a major shift in the conflict and raises concerns among observers that the fighting could further destabilise the Horn of Africa, potentially drawing in neighbouring countries.

The US Department of State called for “restraint” and “dialogue” on all sides ahead of a diplomatic meeting about the conflict in Egypt on Sunday with leaders from some of Ethiopia’s neighbours.

The presidents of Egypt, Eritrea, Somalia and Sudan – which all have strained relations with Ethiopia – met on Sunday in the Egyptian coastal city of El-Alamein.

They called for “respecting the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of states” and the resolution of disputes through “peaceful means”.

Ethiopia accuses Egypt, Eritrea and Sudan of supporting the Tigray rebels, which they deny.