Windhoek:Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) forces have launched a comprehensive offensive against Ethiopian government positions in the Afar and Amhara regions, taking control of federal-controlled airports in Tigray.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Getachew Reda, advisor minister to the Ethiopian Prime Minister on Eastern African Affairs, confirmed the offensive and the seizure of airports on social media.

The offensive has led to the suspension of flights to and from the Tigray region. Ethiopian Airlines announced the temporary suspension of flights to Mekelle, Axum, and Shire, effective immediately, citing the current situation.

These developments occur amid rising tensions in Tigray, following the recent announcement of a new alliance by seven Ethiopian opposition and armed groups. The Tigray region has been a focal point of conflict since November 2020, involving federal government-allied troops and TPLF forces, resulting in a humanitarian crisis.

A peace accord was signed in November 2022 between the conflicting parties, which had previously allowed Ethiopian Airlines to resume flights to Tigray after a long suspension.