In the annals of Eritrean history, few events stand as tall and as defining as the Fenkil operation. This military campaign, launched by the Eritrean People's Liberation Front (EPLF) in 1990, marked a turning point in the struggle for independence from Ethiopian rule. At the heart of this operation was the liberation of Massawa, a strategically vital port city that had been under Ethiopian occupation for decades.
The significance of Massawa cannot be overstated. As Eritrea's principal seaport, it served as a lifeline for the Ethiopian regime, facilitating the flow of military supplies and personnel. Its capture would not only deal a severe blow to the enemy but also open up crucial avenues for international support and recognition for the Eritrean cause.
The Fenkil operation commenced on February 8, 1990, with EPLF fighters launching a coordinated assault on multiple fronts. Despite facing a well-equipped and entrenched enemy, Eritrean forces exhibited remarkable discipline, courage, and tactical ingenuity. They employed a combination of guerrilla tactics, urban warfare strategies, and naval maneuvers to outmaneuver and overwhelm the Ethiopian defenders.
The battle for Massawa was fierce and grueling, with both sides trading blows in the narrow alleyways and fortified positions of the city. Yet, the determination of the EPLF fighters, coupled with the support of the local population, proved decisive. Street by street, building by building, they advanced, facing heavy resistance every step of the way.
On February 10, 1990, after two days of intense fighting, victory finally belonged to the Eritrean forces. The Ethiopian garrison in Massawa surrendered, signaling the end of their occupation. The liberation of Massawa was not just a military triumph but a moment of profound significance for the Eritrean people. It symbolized their resilience, unity, and unwavering commitment to freedom and self-determination.
The aftermath of the Fenkil operation reverberated far beyond the borders of Eritrea. It sent shockwaves through the Ethiopian regime and the international community, signaling the beginning of the end for the Derg dictatorship. The fall of Massawa dealt a severe blow to Ethiopian morale and bolstered the Eritrean struggle for independence.
Today, the Fenkil operation is remembered as a defining chapter in Eritrea's journey towards liberation. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless men and women who dared to dream of a free and sovereign Eritrea. As we commemorate this historic victory, let us honor the memory of the fallen heroes and draw inspiration from their courage and resilience.
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