Mekelle፡Telaviv, Nairobi, Pretoria, London,March 24፡2025 (Tigray Herald)
The Silent and violence Coup D’etat in Tigray’s
and it’s Consequences on the EYES of international media’s .
The Failed Coup in Tigray: The Debretsion Gebremichael-led TPLF Splinter Group’s War
Against the People of Tigray and the Interim Government
A Comprehensive Analysis of International Media Coverage and Geopolitical Implications
Prepared by: Horn of Africa Geopolitical Review (HAGR)
Contributors: Leading Regional and International Political & Security Experts
I. Introduction: A Failed Coup and Its Consequences
Tigray finds itself at a defining moment in its post-war political transition. The failed coup attempt orchestrated by the Debretsion Gebremichael-led TPLF splinter group and its rogue militias has shaken the region, threatening the fragile peace established by the Pretoria Peace Agreement.
This reckless and illegal power grab, aimed at overthrowing the internationally recognized
Tigray Interim Government (TIG), has not only deepened internal divisions but also jeopardized the region’s stability, exposing the TPLF militia’s blatant disregard for international law.
The coup attempt has drawn extensive international media coverage, with major outlets documenting the violent actions of the insurgents, their violations of international legal norms,and the broader geopolitical consequences.
The global response has been overwhelmingly critical of the TPLF splinter faction, reinforcing the legitimacy of the Tigray Interim Government
while exposing the rogue militias’ destabilizing agenda.
This document presents a thorough analysis of the crisis, examining key developments,
international media narratives, and the long-term ramifications for Tigray, Ethiopia, and the Horn of Africa.
II. The Coup Attempt: Timeline and Key Developments
A. Escalating Violence and Lawlessness
Over several weeks, alarming signs of instability emerged as the splinter TPLF faction escalated its campaign of violence and political sabotage. Key events include March 11, 2025: Armed militias loyal to the rogue faction stormed government buildings in Adigrat, unlawfully arresting the city’s mayor.
March 14, 2025: Similar attacks were carried out in multiple towns, with armed insurgents
seizing control of local government institutions.March 15, 2025: The faction’s forces launched a direct assault on Mekelle, attempting to seize control of the regional capital.
March 16, 2025: Tigray Interim President Getachew Reda fled to Addis Ababa due to credible threats to his safety.
B. Violations of International Law and Political Fallout
The coup attempt represents a flagrant violation of international legal norms, including:
Breach of the Pretoria Peace Agreement: The violent power grab directly contravenes the
provisions of the internationally brokered peace deal, undermining efforts to reintegrate Tigray within Ethiopia’s federal structure.
Attempted Overthrow of a Recognized Government: The Tigray Interim Government is the only legitimate governing authority in Tigray, recognized both domestically and internationally.
Humanitarian Crisis:
The violence has displaced thousands, led to targeted killings, and fueled
instability, threatening Tigray’s post-war recovery.
III. International Media Coverage and Analysis
- The Economist – “Playing with Fire: A Coup Attempt in Tigray Raises Tensions in the Horn”
The Economist warned that the TPLF splinter faction’s actions have dangerously destabilized
Tigray.
Key insights:
The crisis is exacerbating tensions between Ethiopia and Eritrea, raising the risk of renewed war.
The rogue faction’s militarization undermines Tigray’s fragile peace.The Tigray Interim Government retains significant local and internatassassinations 2. Foreign Policy – “Tigray Power Struggle Risks Ethiopia-Eritrea War” Foreign Policy’s Nosmot Gbadamosi outlined the geopolitical risks stemming from the crisis:
TPLF’s internal fractures have weakened Tigray’s position, making it vulnerable to external manipulation.Ethiopia’s federal government remains hesitant to intervene directly, creating a power vacuum.
The involvement of regional actors, such as the UAE and Israel, could play a decisive role in stabilizing the region.
- The New York Times – “Tigray’s Interim Government Faces Armed Insurgency”
The New York Times provided a detailed report on:The armed takeover of major towns by TPLF militias.The risk of renewed ethnic and political violence.
Growing support among Tigrayans for the Interim Government’s efforts to maintain stability. - The Guardian – “Power Struggle Leads to Coup in Tigray as War Looms”
The Guardian emphasized:
The exodus of key political figures amid escalating violence.Ethiopian military movements signaling potential intervention.Diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation. - The Washington Post – “Ethiopia’s Tigray Regional Government Appeals for Federal Help”
Key points from The Washington Post’s coverage:The Interim Government’s call for Ethiopian federal intervention.
Reports of civilian casualties and targeted assassinations International legal experts advocating for accountability. - BBC – “Tigrayans Fear Fresh Conflict”
The BBC highlighted widespread fears among Tigrayans that:
The rogue TPLF faction’s actions risk plunging the region into another devastating war.
Many Tigrayans support the peace process and reject the use of force. - Council on Foreign Relations – “Ethiopia’s Tigray Crisis Threatens Regional Stability”
The CFR analysis underscored:
The growing fragility of the Pretoria Peace Agreement.The risk of Ethiopia and Eritrea exploiting the crisis for military gains.
Tigray’s strategic role in the Horn of Africa’s geopolitical landscape.
IV. Consequences of the Failed Coup Attempt
A. Political Fallout
The rogue TPLF faction has lost both local and international credibility.The Tigray Interim Government has strengthened its legitimacy.
International actors are increasingly backing Tigray’s stabilization efforts.
B. Legal Repercussions
The TPLF militias may face prosecution under international law for crimes against civilians.
There is mounting pressure to designate these militias as terrorist organizations Sanctions may be imposed on individuals and groups financing the insurgency.
C. Geopolitical Ramifications
The Horn of Africa’s stability is at significant risk, with Ethiopia, Eritrea, and foreign powers
reassessing their strategic interests.
Tigray’s mineral wealth is emerging as a critical geopolitical asset, attracting global attention
from economic and security actors.
V. Conclusion:
A Turning Point for Tigray
The attempted coup by the Debretsion Gebremichael-led TPLF splinter faction has ended in failure, but its consequences will reverberate for years to come.The international community has reaffirmed its recognition of the Tigray Interim Government as the legitimate authority, while the rogue militias now face mounting legal, political, and military consequences.
This crisis has reinforced the urgent need for Tigray to consolidate peace, forge regional
alliances, and strategically leverage its geopolitical significance. The international media’s extensive coverage has exposed the illegitimacy of the insurgency, reaffirming the importance of accountability, the rule of law, and strategic diplomacy in shaping Tigray’s future.
Prepared & Monitored by:
Horn of Africa Geopolitical Review (HAGR)
Leading Regional and International Political & Security Expert
