Ethiopia is facing a sharp security escalation as federal forces advance toward Mekelle, the capital of the Tigray region, while concerns over attacks and security incidents have also spread to Addis Ababa.

Recent reports indicate that pro-government forces have been advancing in northern Ethiopia, with fighting involving the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) and allied groups. Reports on Saturday said Tigrayan forces were withdrawing from positions around Mekelle as government-aligned forces moved closer to the regional capital.

The renewed conflict has also affected Ethiopia’s relations with neighbouring Eritrea. Ethiopia ordered 10 Eritrean diplomats to leave the country and closed its embassy in Asmara, accusing the diplomats of activities that it said threatened national security. Eritrea subsequently announced that it was severing diplomatic relations with Ethiopia.

Security concerns have also emerged in Addis Ababa. Reports said several explosions were heard in different parts of the capital after authorities imposed restrictions on drone flights. The exact circumstances surrounding some of the blasts remained unclear, although other reports attributed alleged drone attacks to an armed opposition alliance.

The developments have prompted additional security measures in the capital. Analysts and regional observers are closely watching whether the renewed fighting remains concentrated in northern Ethiopia or creates further instability elsewhere in the country.

The humanitarian situation is another major concern. Reports from Tigray indicate that fighting has disrupted essential services and created uncertainty for residents, while people displaced by earlier violence remain vulnerable to further displacement.

The African Union has called on Ethiopia, Eritrea and Egypt to exercise restraint and resolve their differences through diplomatic channels and peaceful dialogue. The regional body has warned against actions or statements that could further undermine stability in the Horn of Africa.

The latest developments mark a significant deterioration from the relative calm that followed Ethiopia’s 2022 peace agreement. The situation remains fluid, with military movements, diplomatic tensions and security incidents continuing to develop.

Authorities and humanitarian organisations are now closely monitoring conditions around Mekelle and other affected areas as the conflict enters another potentially dangerous phase.