New rebel alliance reignites the struggle over the Red Sea

The Tigray People’s Liberation Front captured Mekelle airport as part of an offensive by a new rebel coalition. On September 20, seven Ethiopian armed groups announced the formation of the Ethiopian People’s Forces Alliance for Survival. This alliance includes the Tigray People’s Liberation Front, Fano militias from Amhara, the Oromo Liberation Army, and other armed groups.

The alliance aims to overthrow Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s government and establish a transitional administration. Members of the coalition view the current federal government as a threat to the survival of their communities. While some of these groups fought as enemies during the 2020–2022 civil war, they have set aside previous conflicts to unite against the central government.

The government in Addis Ababa stated that alliance members have received financial support from Eritrea and have been cooperating for some time. The conflict carries potential implications for the regional balance of power among countries bordering the Red Sea.