Ethiopian National Defense Force and Tigray Peace Force take control of Mekelle

The Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) and the Tigray Peace Force have successfully taken full control of Mekelle, the capital city of the Tigray region. The joint forces have secured major locations, including Romanat Square, and now control the entirety of the city. According to Degafi Gudfay, chairman of the Qanchi Haqi Party, the joint forces have also consolidated control over vast areas stretching from Raya, Sekota, and Korem to the Afar regional border at Abala.

Reports indicate that following the withdrawal of TPLF leaders, armed groups engaged in looting property within the city. Officials expressed optimism that the arrival of federal forces will restore security and order. Former Tigray interim administration official Prof. Kindeya Gebrehiwot also confirmed the development, describing the liberation of the city from the previous group as a decisive turning point.