In an increasingly escalating situation, Tigrayan forces have been given a 72 hour ultimatum  to surrender before the Ethiopian federal military begins an offensive on Mekelle, the regional capital of Tigray. Africa News reports that advancing Ethiopian troops plan to force the city to surrender by shelling it.

According to Africa News, the Tigray People’s Liberation Front said, in response, that it’s forces were digging trenches and standing firm. The region has thus far refused to surrender.

Tigrayan leaders say Tigrayans have been marginalized since Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has took office two years ago. They say Tigrayans have been removed from senior roles in the government and the military.

Mediation efforts by the international community have failed, with the Prime Minister insisting that this was not a conflict or war but a law enforcement operation.

The conflict which began in early November has seen hundreds killed, with 30,000 having fled to neighboring Sudan.

Umm Muhammed Umar