According to Afar officials, TPLF forces launched attacks using heavy weapons in the Tonsa area of Megale district, targeting local pastoralist communities. The regional government warned that it would “defend itself from external attack” if such hostilities continue.
The TPLF, which once dominated Ethiopian politics before being ousted in 2018, fought federal forces between 2020 and 2022 in a devastating conflict that ended with the Pretoria Peace Agreement. While the deal restored relative calm, deep political divisions and sporadic tensions remain across northern Ethiopia.
Since the peace deal, the TPLF has experienced internal splits. Some former members, including Getachew Reda, have formed new political alliances. Getachew, a former TPLF spokesperson and interim Tigray administrator, now serves as Minister Advisor for East African Affairs in the federal government.
As of now, TPLF officials have not issued a response to the Afar government’s accusations.