To “defend Ethiopia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” the Ethiopian government claims it wants to seize control of the airports and other federal buildings in the Tigray area.
It claimed that this was required to defend its airspace after it had been “violated by hostile foreign entities backing the TPLF [rebel forces],” according to a statement.
It claimed that the administration will be able to speed up the delivery of humanitarian aid to those in the area who are being harmed by the continuous conflict.
The statement expresses commitment to resolving the situation through an African Union-led process, but it also suggests that combat may continue despite appeals for de-escalation.
The statement said, “We feel that there is a need for a comprehensive and negotiated settlement that would result in a lasting peace.”
The government’s comments come as the AU urged the warring parties to renew their commitment to peace negotiations.
In response to the AU’s request, Tigrayan forces stated on Sunday that they were “ready to comply by an immediate stop of hostilities.” “.
They also urged the international community “to order the Eritrean military to leave Tigray. The Ethiopian government’s ally Eritrea has been supporting its neighbor in the conflict with the Tigray army.
The Ethiopian government vowed on Monday to forgo urban battles and grant humanitarian access in areas under its control.
However, several international voices have raised concern over the bombing of places like the Shire and the deaths of people, including at least one aid worker.
