The Ethiopian army is continuing its offensive against rebel forces in the Tigray region. Government troops captured the city of Alamata on Tuesday and have since regained control of the airport of Mek'ele, located 10 kilometers east of the city. Reports from AFP indicate no remaining rebel presence in Mek'ele itself. However, a resident expressed fears of looting due to the lack of security forces maintaining order, fearing for their safety and calling for the swift restoration of law and order. The Tigray region previously experienced a brutal civil war from 2020-2022 between the TPLF and allied groups against the Ethiopian army, resulting in an estimated 600,000 deaths according to the African Union. Following a period of peace brokered by the African Union in November 2022, fighting has recently resumed, with the TPLF initiating what they call a “defensive war” to overthrow Prime Minister Abiy’s government, raising concerns of wider regional involvement. Ethiopia accuses Eritrea, Sudan, and Egypt of supporting the rebels, allegations which those countries deny.