The conflict has killed hundreds so far and displaced many more. More than 40,000 refugees have crossed into neighboring Sudan and roads in Tigray are crowded with people escaping from the fighting.

"The TPLF was a “darling” of the West, especially the US and UK. The two articles below should be read together, bearing in mind the sources. The first, by Horn of Africa scholar Fikrejesus Amahazion,is an historical background and analysis of the forces in play in Ethiopia and the region, written on Tuesday, November 17. The second article, published by the UK-based corporate newspaper The Guardian, on November 23, contains updates on the conflict and political reporting from the standpoint of western alliances and interests. – BAR editors"