Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region is witnessing rising tensions between rival armed factions, threatening the fragile stability gained since the end of the brutal two-year civil war. The Tigray interim administration accused the opposition Simret Party of carrying out an armed attack in southeastern Tigray that killed a regional security officer on July 30.

In a statement, the regional Peace and Security Office said the attack targeted security forces under the guise of political activity and blamed Simret for operating with foreign support and inciting regional instability.

Simret Party Denies Involvement

Simret, led by prominent former TPLF spokesman Getachew Reda, strongly rejected the accusations. Reda accused the interim authorities of suppressing political opposition and fabricating charges to justify crackdowns. He claimed the party has neither the military nor political capacity to engage in such operations and remains committed to peaceful dialogue.

Fears of Return to Armed Conflict

Observers warn the accusations could escalate into wider violence, as the interim administration vowed to “take defensive measures” against any “destructive behavior.” Civil society groups have also raised the alarm. In June, a peace initiative titled “Peace and Dialogue” was launched by local actors urging restraint and political reconciliation.

Tensions in Tigray have resurged since mid-2024, despite a 2022 peace deal between the federal government and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF). With new political forces like Simret entering the scene and military factions still present, fears grow that a return to violence may undo hard-won gains.