Ethiopian government forces and allied militias entered the northern Tigray town of Adigrat on Saturday, regaining control after Eritrean troops withdrew from positions near the city.

Residents reported seeing Ethiopian soldiers and military vehicles patrolling the streets of Adigrat, which lies about 30 kilometers from the Eritrean border. The Tigray Peace Force, a militia allied with the Ethiopian government, posted on social media that the town was free and described a welcoming atmosphere from residents.

The developments followed reports of Eritrean forces advancing into Tigray earlier in the week. Ethiopia informed members of the UN Security Council that Eritrean troops had penetrated up to 60 kilometers inside the region, stating it had no option but to defend its territory. Eritrea denied any incursion and accused Ethiopia of fabricating claims to justify aggression.

The U.S.-based conflict monitor ACLED reported that Ethiopian drone strikes targeted Eritrean forces near Adigrat, prompting their withdrawal. Explosions were heard in the area on Wednesday, Thursday, and into Friday.

This latest episode occurs amid Ethiopia's ongoing operations against the Tigray People's Liberation Front in the north. Ethiopian forces have advanced northward in recent days, consolidating positions in the region.

Reuters could not independently confirm full Ethiopian control of Adigrat, though multiple residents corroborated the presence of federal troops and allied militias. Ethiopian military officials have not issued an immediate statement on the entry into the town.

The incident heightens concerns over renewed border tensions between Ethiopia and Eritrea, two nations with a history of conflict. Ethiopia has framed its actions as necessary self-defense against foreign military presence on its soil.