Ethiopian federal forces retake Makalé, ending rebel offensive and restoring services
Ethiopian federal troops and allied forces entered Makalé without fighting, halting the rebel advance and restoring telecommunications and banking.
Federal troops and allied forces entered Makalé, the Tigray regional capital, on Saturday without encountering resistance, effectively stopping the rebel offensive launched in late September by the Front populaire de libération du Tigré (FPLT) and its allies. The occupation allowed the restoration of telecommunications and banking services that had been down for roughly ten days. The FPLT confirmed it had temporarily abandoned the city to keep fighting in other areas.
Local witnesses said peacekeepers from the Forces de paix du Tigré now patrol the streets, dine in restaurants, and guard regional administration buildings. Citizens noted that people are beginning to leave their homes again, feeling a modest sense of relief after forced conscription forced many youths into hiding. Nonetheless, anxiety remains about potential retaliation by federal forces.
Why it matters
The recapture of Makalé could shift the balance of power in the Tigray conflict and affect civilian access to essential services.
How this story developed
- Sep 23 Tigrayan forces capture Mekelle airport, prompting Ethiopian Airlines to halt regional flights
- Sep 23 Ethiopian Airlines posted a flight suspension following the reported airport seizure.
- Oct 2 A seven-group coalition headed by the TPLF has clashed with Ethiopia’s army in the north, while neighboring states and Gulf powers are accused of backing opposite sides.
- Oct 3 TPLF forces are withdrawing from Mekelle as federal troops advance toward the capital.
- Oct 4 A new coalition of seven anti‑government militias under the TPLF has been formed.
- Oct 5 Federal troops and pro‑government militias entered Mekelle following the TPLF’s announced withdrawal.
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