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Ethiopian Rebels Pull Back From Mekelle, Residents Say

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PublishedOctober 5, 2026
Rebel forces in Ethiopia have reportedly withdrawn from Mekelle, the regional capital of Tigray. This is a major shift in the fighting in northern Ethiopia. According to two residents in Mekelle who spoke to the BBC, pro-government forces have taken control of the city. They said the rebels pulled back and that government troops moved in. The report highlights how quickly power can change during the conflict. For people in Tigray, the next steps matter for safety, access to services, and the chance to return to normal routines. Even with this reported change, the wider situation remains uncertain, and more developments are expected. The BBC account is based on resident statements.
ethiopiatigraymekellerebelsgovernment forcesconflict