Fighting in northern Ethiopia is spreading, with civilians largely bearing the cost. The conflict follows months of worsening tensions over contested territories, displaced populations, and the unresolved demobilization of Tigrayan forces. It began on September 23 when Tigrayan forces declared they had begun a defensive war against the Ethiopian government. Days earlier, the Tigray People’s Liberation Front and six armed groups announced they had formed an alliance to topple Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. Since the conflict began, federal forces have reportedly seized the strategic town of Alamata and are pushing toward Mekelle, Tigray’s regional capital. Meanwhile, Tigrayan forces have pushed into Afar, raising fears for Ethiopia’s main trade corridor. Both sides blame each other for provoking the escalation.