The Amhara Association of America (AAA), a U.S.-based human rights organization, has released a report warning of a potential military offensive by forces affiliated with the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) in the disputed Welkait-Tegede-Setit Humera Zone, which is currently administered as part of Ethiopia’s Amhara Region but also claimed by the Tigray Region.
According to AAA’s June 21 update, TPLF forces have been mobilizing around the area from four strategic directions since June 17. The report alleges significant deployments from the Shiraro, Waldebba, Dedebit, and Sudan border areas, with troops equipped with heavy weaponry and support units. AAA states that TPLF’s “Army 13,” under the command of Tsegaye Markis, has moved toward the Maytemen bridge near Shiraro, while other units have reportedly been positioned in Mayderafot, Mayhansi, Tselimoy, and the Shererina area near the Sudanese border. The group claims that three TPLF corps in the Sudan border area include fighters reportedly armed with equipment obtained through cooperation with elements of the Sudanese Armed Forces.
In addition, AAA reports that the TPLF has increased its military presence in the neighboring Telemt Woreda, part of the North Gonder Zone, with forces led by commanders Wedi Yazol and General Werqaynu operating from towns such as Debreabay and Endabaguna. AAA claims that these units — including “Corps 111” and other mechanized support groups — are seeking to advance toward the Welkait area through routes such as Armadega and Addisalem.
The AAA report also highlights recent public messaging by TPLF officials, including a speech made by TPLF representative Amanuel Assefa in Mekelle on June 20, in which he stated that Tigrayans would take military action if disputed territories like Welkait were not returned peacefully. AAA argues that this rhetoric, along with organized demonstrations, could indicate political preparation for a possible military action.
While AAA’s report presents detailed accounts of troop movements and intentions, the situation on the ground remains fluid, and independent verification of military activity is limited. The Welkait-Tegede-Setit Humera area has been the subject of longstanding territorial disputes between the Amhara and Tigray regional governments, with both sides asserting historical and administrative claims.
AAA is urging international actors to monitor the situation closely and to prioritize civilian protection amid rising tensions in the region. The organization emphasized the importance of de-escalation and called for peaceful mechanisms to resolve the status of disputed territories.
