On January 30, 2026, African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf issued an urgent appeal for all parties in northern Ethiopia to exercise 'maximum restraint' and resolve outstanding issues through constructive dialogue. The statement follows reports of flight suspensions and fresh clashes in the Tselemti area, which the AU describes as a 'significant test' for the Permanent Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (COHA). Opposition parties in Tigray, such as Salsay Woyane, have warned international mediators of an 'imminent and catastrophic collapse' of the fragile peace. The AU reaffirmed its commitment to the peace process, stating its high-level panel is ready to scale up facilitation measures. However, the situation remains dire as surveillance drones are reported over Mekelle and youth in the region flee to avoid potential conscription into regional or federal forces.