TPLF Military Buildup Signals Imminent Offensive on Welkait-Tegede-Setit Humera Zone
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- 35 minutes ago
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June 21st, 2025
Tensions are rapidly escalating around Welkait-Tegede-Setit Humera Zone of the Amhara Region, as recent developments point to a major military buildup by Tigray Region Forces affiliated to the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). Since June 17th, TPLF forces initiated a large-scale deployment of troops and heavy weaponry, surrounding the zone from four key strategic directions in what appears to be a coordinated plan to breach and reoccupy the area.
A Four-Pronged Encirclement Strategy
The TPLF’s military posture reflects a calculated encirclement of the Welkait-Tegede-Setit Humera Zone:
Shiraro Direction: TPLF forces designated as “Army 13” have mobilized to the Maytemen bridge, a critical access point linking Shiraro to Welkait. Armed with six ZU-23 anti-aircraft guns and other heavy weapons, this unit is under the command of Tsegaye Markis, operating out of Addinebrid.
Waldebba Monastery Direction: TPLF troop movements have been reported in Mayderafot, further tightening the grip from the east.
Dedebit Direction: TPLF military deployments from Dedebit have extended toward Mayhansi and Tselimoy, establishing forward operating bases near the heart of the zone.
Sudan Direction: Along the border with Sudan, three TPLF corps have been deployed in Shererina. These units include fighters affiliated with the infamous “Samri kill squad” and are reportedly armed with new military equipment obtained from the Sudanese Armed Forces in exchange for participation in Sudan's internal conflict.
The Telemt Offensive Front
In parallel, the TPLF has reinforced its presence in Telemt Woreda of North Gonder Zone (Amhara Region) under Wedi Yazol, reportedly operating from Debreabay town. These forces consist of “Army 11,” under General Werqaynu, and mechanized support from “Army 17” have been deployed extensively, with “Corps 111” stationed in Endabaguna and Adigebro Kebeles. This unit, made up of 825 combatants, is equipped with 20 snipers, 33 light machine guns, 12 mortars, 17 heavy machine guns, 7 RPGs, and hundreds of kalashnikov rifles.
Their stated objective is to breach the zone via Armadega, push through Addisalem Kebele, and eventually reach Soroqa and Welkait. Planning and coordination have been underway in Harmina and Betemaryam Kebeles in recent weeks.
Public Rhetoric and Mobilization
demonstrations. On June 20th, TPLF official Amanuel Assefa declared during a rally in Mekelle that Tigrayans are prepared to launch a military operation if territories such as Welkait are not “peacefully returned.” The protests, framed as advocacy for internally displaced persons, appear to be part of a broader campaign to legitimize the looming offensive.
The situation around Welkait-Tegede-Setit Humera is entering a critical phase. The TPLF’s multi-front mobilization, the presence of Sudan-linked combatants, and the militarized rhetoric from TPLF political figures suggest that a renewed attempt to forcibly reoccupy the zone may be imminent.
