The African Union Commission (AUC) has expressed deep alarm over the spike in military activity across northern Ethiopia, urging all involved parties to exercise maximum self-control and halt further escalation immediately.
In an official statement, AUC Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf highlighted growing concerns over recent hostilities. He warned that emerging political and military alliances threaten to unravel the peace gains achieved under the African Union’s “Silencing the Guns” initiative and the 2022 Pretoria Agreement.
“The seizure and occupation of the civilian airports of Mekelle, Axum, and Shire by Tigray forces are inconsistent with the commitments and obligations within the Pretoria Agreement and risk eroding the hard-won gains achieved in the pursuit of lasting peace and stability,” the chairperson said in a statement.
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According to local reports, Tigray forces have taken control of airports across the region, leading directly to the suspension of flights. Reports also indicate an expansion of hostilities into positions in neighboring regions.
To prevent a further slide into conflict, the AUC called for an immediate de-escalation of hostilities and the prompt resumption of direct talks. The Commission further urged all neighboring countries to refrain from actions that could contribute to further escalation and to actively support dialogue, confidence-building, and stability.
The AUC Chairperson has requested Olusegun Obasanjo, former President of Nigeria and AU High Representative for the Horn of Africa, to urgently engage the parties and support renewed diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions, promoting dialogue, and safeguarding the peace process.
