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Ethiopian Airlines Halts Flights Amid Tigray Conflict Fears

1/31/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Ethiopian Airlines suspended all flights to Tigray on January 29, 2026, amid clashes between federal troops and Tigrayan forces in western areas.
The fighting raises fears of a return to conflict, just over three years after a peace deal ended a war that claimed over 600,000 lives.
Mekele residents rush to withdraw cash and stock up on supplies.
Tigray's interim administration has urged the African Union to intervene.

History

Historical Context

The Tigray War, which began in November 2020, resulted in over 600,000 deaths and widespread humanitarian crises. On November 2, 2022, the Ethiopian government and the Tigray People's Liberation Front signed a peace agreement in Pretoria, mediated by the African Union. Despite this, ongoing violence from Eritrean and Amhara forces threatens the fragile peace and complicates humanitarian efforts in the region.

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Story summary

Ethiopian Airlines suspended all flights to Tigray on January 29, 2026, amid clashes between federal troops and Tigrayan forces in western areas.
The fighting raises fears of a return to conflict, just over three years after a peace deal ended a war that claimed over 600,000 lives.
Mekele residents rush to withdraw cash and stock up on supplies.
Tigray's interim administration has urged the African Union to intervene.

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