Tigray Forces Report Advance After TPLF Withdrawal from Mekele

Tigray peace forces allied with Ethiopia’s federal army have reported advances against the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), including the claimed capture of several strategic positions.

The forces said they had joined Ethiopia’s federal army in the latest fighting. The TPLF withdrew from Mekele, the capital of Tigray, after being pushed back by the peace forces, according to the report.

Reported setback for TPLF

The reported capture of Mekele was described as a major setback for the TPLF. However, the account did not include independent verification of the city’s capture or the other territorial claims.

The developments followed an offensive launched by the TPLF against federal forces on September 23. The source did not provide the exact date on which Mekele was reportedly captured.

Tigray peace forces are described as a breakaway militia that is now allied with Addis Ababa. The report did not include statements from the TPLF or Ethiopia’s federal government, nor did it provide casualty figures.

Wider regional developments

The report also noted that opposition leader Aliou Bah regained his freedom in Conakry after being jailed since December 2024.

In Goma, a local initiative is focusing on education, psychosocial support and health prevention for children affected by conflict and poverty, as well as facing the risk of Ebola.

Meanwhile, Irreecha, a traditional festival celebrated by the Oromo people, was cited alongside the continuation of Addis Ababa’s cultural calendar despite tensions destabilising northern Ethiopia.