Where Sources Agree

• arrows_inputAirport Seizures and Flight Suspensions: Reporting predominantly indicates that Tigrayan forces have seized control of airports in Mekelle, Shire, and Axum, prompting state-owned Ethiopian Airlines to suspend all flights to these locations, according to official carrier statements and local security sources.
• arrows_inputFlight Operations Suspended: Most outlets report that Ethiopian Airlines suspended flights to the Tigray cities of Mekelle, Shire, and Axum on September 23, citing the current security situation, according to the state-owned carrier.
• arrows_inputNew Rebel Alliance: Most coverage confirms the TPLF formed an alliance with six other armed groups on September 20, with the stated aim of overthrowing Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s government, according to multiple news reports.

Where Sources Disagree

• arrows_outputCauses of Renewed Hostilities: Federal government advisers report that the TPLF launched an all-out offensive against government positions in Afar and Amhara. However, Tigray regional authorities assert they entered a defensive war in response to intensive bombardments by federal forces involving aircraft, drones, and artillery.
• arrows_outputAirport Takeover Circumstances: Local witnesses describe the takeover of Mekelle airport as peaceful, reporting no gunfire during the event. In contrast, rebel leadership claims that Tigrayan forces took the federal police guards stationed at the airport prisoner.