TPLF arms acquisition and new alliances risk lasting peace in Tigray, says Foreign Minister

He stated that hardliner elements within the TPLF have not fully embraced the peace agreement, particularly regarding disarmament, demobilisation, and reintegration DDR processes. According to Gedion, these factions are actively acquiring new arms, diverting resources from humanitarian recovery and reconstruction, and pursuing confrontational political strategies. He added that emerging alliances between these TPLF hardliners and external actors, whose interests conflict with Ethiopia's long-term stability and that of the Horn of Africa, risk reversing progress.

Gedion emphasized that the federal government supports post-conflict recovery, reconstruction, and reintegration, but stressed that peace agreements require commitment from all stakeholders. He also discussed Ethiopia's maritime ambitions, stating that access to maritime routes is crucial for national development and regional interdependence, and should be framed as a necessity guided by dialogue, mutual benefit, and regional stability. Regarding the Nile, Gedion reiterated Ethiopia's position that shared natural resources must be used based on equity, cooperation, and mutual benefit, rejecting approaches that frame development as a threat.