The Unlikely Defeat: How Tigray Overcame the Ethiopian and Eritrean Joint Armies
One of the most intriguing questions emerging from the ongoing conflict in Ethiopia is how the small, landlocked, and seemingly under-equipped Tigray region managed to defeat the joint armies of Ethiopia and Eritrea. This victory has puzzled observers and led many to question the traditional dynamics of warfare in this part of the world. In this article, we will explore the key factors that contributed to this unexpected outcome, drawing insights from expert opinions and recent events on the ground.
Key Factors in Tigray's Victory
Military Tradition and Leadership
Tigray has a rich military tradition dating back to its 17 years of armed struggle against the Dergue regime, which was led by the dictator Mengistu. This long-standing struggle has produced an experienced military leadership that played a critical role in this battle.
The Cause to Die For
The atrocities committed by the genocidal regimes of Ethiopia and Eritrea provided a powerful impetus for Tigrayan fighters. The people of Tigray saw the war as a matter of survival and resistance, fueling their determination to fight to the end.
The 'Foolishness' of Enemy Commanders
Another critical factor was the strategic blunders made by the Ethiopian and Eritrean forces. The leaders of these armies made significant miscalculations, which ultimately led to their downfall. Their decisions, often guided by political and financial interests rather than military strategy, were fundamentally flawed.
Expert Insights
The question of Tigray's surprising victory has drawn attention from many experts, including Prof. Haggai Erlich, a prominent historian of Ethiopian history at Tel Aviv University. In an interview with i24News, Erlich emphasized the long-standing contributions of the Tigray people to the defense of Ethiopia throughout history. He pointed out that the Tigray region has been the site of some of the most significant battles for Ethiopia's survival, making the region a formidable opponent for any invading force.
Erlich noted, 'Even when Mussolini invaded Ethiopia in 1935, he did not dare to enter the mountainous citadel of Tigray.' This historical context underscores the strategic importance of the Tigray region and the resilience of its people in defending their homeland.
Recent Developments
The defeat of the Ethiopian and Eritrean forces by Tigrayan fighters was a turning point in the eight-month civil war. New reports from the New York Times provide further insight into the events leading up to and following this victory.
Decisive Week in the Tigray War
A scrappy force of local Tigrayan recruits, often armed with little more than rudimentary weapons, scored a series of battlefield victories against the Ethiopian military. Times journalists witnessed the decisive week in this conflict, highlighting the unexpected resilience and strategic acumen of the Tigrayan fighters.
This decisive week marked a significant shift in the conflict, as the Ethiopian army lost its experienced fighters and was forced to rely on newly recruited and inexperienced conscripts. The morale of the Ethiopian forces plummeted, leading to a rapid deterioration of their combat effectiveness.
Conclusion
The unexpected victory of Tigray was the result of a complex interplay of factors, including their military tradition, the compelling cause for resistance, and the strategic blunders of their opponents. This victory serves as a powerful reminder of the unpredictable nature of warfare and the significant role that local knowledge and determination can play in shaping the course of conflict.
As the situation in Ethiopia continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to see how Tigray's victory impacts the region's political landscape and the ongoing conflict.