Explainer: Why new war in Ethiopia’s Tigray threatens to trigger wider conflict

A new escalation of conflict in Ethiopia's Tigray region threatens to destabilize the country and the wider region. Tigrayan armed groups have launched attacks against the Ethiopian government, which has responded militarily, while Ethiopian Airlines suspends flights to Tigray, hampering humanitarian access. Several armed factions have announced an alliance against the central government, increasing the risk of a broader conflict in Ethiopia and the region. The international community is calling for de-escalation to prevent a major humanitarian crisis.