Beginning on February 8, 1990 the EPLF forces began the offensive by cutting off the critical supply route from the Asmara garrison. The surprise attack stunned the Ethiopian military and by the following afternoon the EPLF forces were in the suburbs of Massawa.
Commencing on February 8, 1990, the EPLF forces initiated the assault by severing the vital supply route from the Asmara garrison. The unexpected attack left the Ethiopian military reeling and by the following afternoon, the EPLF forces had entered the outskirts of Massawa.