Government forces reported to have entered Mekelle
Two residents in the city of Mekelle have told the BBC that rebel forces in the northern Tigray region have withdrawn and that pro-government troops have taken control of the regional capital. The accounts were provided directly to BBC journalists in the city.
Mekelle is the administrative centre of Ethiopia’s Tigray region, and control of the city carries both symbolic and practical significance for the wider conflict there. Local reports of a change of control mark a notable development in a long-running and complex confrontation between federal authorities and armed groups in the region.
The situation on the ground remains fluid and details about the movements of forces, any clashes and the wider security picture have not been fully reported. Independent confirmation of the residents’ accounts was not provided in the initial report.
Humanitarian and political implications
A shift in control of Mekelle could affect civilians, aid access and the broader political negotiations, as capital cities often serve as hubs for administration and relief operations. Observers and local organisations will be watching for indications of how governance, services and humanitarian assistance are managed in the aftermath.
Further reporting is expected as additional sources become available and independent verification is obtained. International and local media, along with aid groups, are likely to monitor the situation for confirmation and updates.