Tensions between Eritrea and Ethiopia have escalated, prompting fears of an imminent conflict after former Ethiopian President Mulatu Teshome accused Eritrea of inciting war. Eritrea responded by accusing Ethiopia of warmongering. Military preparations are underway in Eritrea, and local factions in Tigray are divided, with some opposing alliances with Eritrea. Allegations of illegal gold mining also complicate the situation, as Eritrea faces social media backlash.
The Horn of Africa is experiencing heightened tensions as Eritrea and Ethiopia approach a critical threshold of conflict. Following the recent resolution of the Ethiopia-Somalia dispute, concerns have arisen regarding the potential for a full-scale war due to intensified hostilities between these two nations.
A report from African Intelligence suggests that tensions escalated after former Ethiopian President Mulatu Teshome’s allegations against Eritrea, claiming it was manipulating the TPLF to provoke conflict. Eritrea countered these accusations, labelling Teshome’s statements as “warmongering,” further inflaming the already volatile situation.
Military alliances are forming, with leaders in Tigray reportedly supporting the TPLF faction led by Debretsion Gebremichael while coordinating with Eritrean officials. Ethiopian news outlets indicate Eritrea is prepared to assist these military leaders should Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s government initiate military actions against them.
Recent reports highlight Eritrea’s increased military readiness, mandating all men under 60 with military experience to undergo training, while travel restrictions have been placed on individuals under 50. This mobilization underscores Eritrea’s heightened alertness in response to the evolving geopolitical landscape.
Contrarily, some military figures in Tigray reject the alliance with Eritrea, opting instead to align with the Interim Administration, which supports the Ethiopian federal government. Allegations have emerged regarding TPLF leaders engaging in illegal gold mining operations in Tigray, with accusations against Eritrea for facilitating these activities, which the Eritrean government denies.
In light of ongoing criticisms on social media targeting Eritrea, the Minister for Information, Yemane Gebremeskel, remarked that these attacks are driven by a misguided quest to seize territorial and maritime rights, violating international laws and norms of peaceful coexistence.
In summary, the deteriorating relations between Eritrea and Ethiopia present a significant risk of renewed conflict in the Horn of Africa. Accusations of manipulation within the TPLF and increased military mobilization by Eritrea contribute to the tense atmosphere. With both nations’ leaders taking firm stances, the potential for a full-scale war looms large, emphasizing the urgent need for diplomatic intervention.
Original Source: borkena.com
