Tigray Rebel Groups Forcibly Recruiting Boys as Young as 15 2026

Tigray rebel groups are forcibly recruiting boys as young as 15 as renewed fighting spreads across northern Ethiopia, threatening a fresh humanitarian crisis. Reports from witnesses describe a broad campaign of forced recruitment targeting men and boys between the ages of 15 and 65, as conflict reignites between Ethiopia's federal government and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF).

Renewed Conflict Shatters Fragile Peace

Fighting erupted on 23 September, shattering the Pretoria peace agreement signed in November 2022. The TPLF launched an attack, claiming it was a response to drone strikes by the federal government. As tensions escalated, a new alliance of armed groups emerged, with the Eritrean Defence Forces and Amhara militias—previously accused of war crimes—switching allegiance to support the TPLF.

Forced Recruitment Campaign Targets Youth

Witnesses speaking to the Guardian described a systematic campaign of forced recruitment in Tigray. Boys as young as 15 are being taken from their homes and forced into military service. Gezu*, 34, a veteran of the 2020-22 war, received a call from TPLF authorities demanding he report for duty. "I survived one war, only to be dragged into another," he said. "They are taking everyone, even children."

Key Takeaways

• Renewed fighting since 23 September has broken the 2022 peace deal.
• Forced recruitment targets boys aged 15 to 65 across Tigray.
• Eritrean and Amhara forces now fight alongside the TPLF.
• Humanitarian crisis looms as testimonies of child soldiers emerge.

Impact on Civilians and Humanitarian Crisis

The region, already battered by the 2020-22 conflict, faces a new humanitarian emergency. Families are fleeing their homes, and aid agencies warn of food and medical shortages. The recruitment of child soldiers is a violation of international law, and the UN has called for an immediate end to the practice.

Data at a Glance

International Response and Calls for Action

The international community has expressed alarm. The African Union and UN are urging restraint and dialogue. However, with fighting spreading, the situation remains volatile. Local leaders warn that without intervention, the cycle of violence will continue, devastating an entire generation.

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