Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed warned against any invasion attempts, highlighting Ethiopia’s readiness to defend itself amid rising tensions with Somalia and Egypt. Somalia has reacted negatively to military agreements involving Ethiopia and Somaliland, while Egypt eyes military support in the region due to its longstanding Nile water disputes with Ethiopia over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. The geopolitical climate remains tense with potential escalations in military involvement.
Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has conveyed a stark warning to any potential invaders of his nation, urging them to reconsider their intentions seriously. His remarks were not directed towards any specific country; however, they arise during a period of heightened tensions with neighboring Somalia and Egypt. Abiy emphasized that any attempt to invade Ethiopia would be met with significant resistance from its forces.
Tensions have escalated particularly due to Somalia’s reaction to an agreement between Ethiopia’s government and Somaliland, which Somalia views as an act of aggression. In response, Somalia has enhanced its military cooperation with Egypt. This is compounded by Egypt’s long-standing dispute with Ethiopia regarding the latter’s construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, which significantly impacts Nile waters.
Following a new military agreement with Somalia, reports indicate that Egypt may deploy troops there. Abiy, in a televised address celebrating Ethiopia’s Sovereignty Day, asserted that Ethiopia seeks peace, yet cautioned against underestimating its readiness to defend itself. Statements included, “Anyone intending to invade Ethiopia should think not just once but 10 times… we Ethiopians know how to defend ourselves.”
In recent developments, Somalia expressed its discontent over Ethiopia’s maritime pact with Somaliland, particularly concerning port access. Somaliland, which has sought recognition as an independent state, may also consider leasing coastal areas to the Ethiopian navy, an arrangement that Addis Ababa finds beneficial.
As a result of these complexities, tensions further intensified when Egyptian military aircraft arrived in Somalia. Reports indicate plans for Egypt to send nearly 10,000 soldiers to support operations countering the insurgent group al-Shabab in Somalia, in cooperation with Ethiopian forces that are set to withdraw next year.
Moreover, Egyptian officials have voiced concerns regarding Ethiopia’s dam, which they claim threatens their water supply. The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam project is heralded by Ethiopia as essential for addressing its energy needs, underscoring the complex and potentially volatile geopolitical dynamics in the region.
In summary, Ethiopia has issued a strong warning against potential invasions amid rising tensions with Somalia and Egypt. Abiy Ahmed’s remarks highlight the country’s preparedness to defend itself following military pacts in the region. The ongoing disputes over maritime agreements and control of the Nile River further complicate relations, indicating a need for careful diplomacy to avoid escalation. The intricate interplay of military, historical, and geographical factors will be critical in determining future stability in East Africa.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
