The order for the forces to return to Tigray came as the Ethiopian federal army and its allies have made strong advances in recent weeks. Major towns and cities in the neighboring Amhara and Afar regions have been recaptured by the Ethiopian forces, forcing the Tigray fighters to retreat further into their region. Getachew Reda, spokesman for the Tigray region, confirmed on Monday the withdrawal was complete. The Tigray forces say they are fighting to lift the blockade on their people. “Tigray forces appear to be in a weakened position after giving up all the areas they controlled,” he said.

Source: Ethiopian News December 20, 2021 17:52 UTC