Ethiopia’s forces retake Mekelle amid renewed Tigray fighting
Ethiopian federal forces have recaptured Mekelle, the capital of the Tigray region, following a resurgence of fighting. The development has sparked fears of a return to the humanitarian crisis and displacement seen during the 2020–2022 civil war.
Why it matters
The collapse of the Pretoria peace agreement threatens regional stability in the Horn of Africa and risks a new cycle of large-scale violence.
The capture of Tigray’s regional capital revives fears of another prolonged conflict, displacement and crisis.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info Mekelle, Tigray’s regional capital, has been retaken by Ethiopian federal forces and allied fighters amid renewed fighting in the region [File: AFP] By Al Jazeera staff Published On 5 Oct 2026 5 Oct 2026 Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – The capture of Tigray’s regional capital Mekelle by Ethiopian federal forces and allied Tigray Peace Force fighters has revived painful memories of the 2020–22 Tigray war, with residents fearing a return to prolonged violence, displacement and economic hardship.
Also covering this story
7 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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