Gebru Asrat, a former TPLF executive, discusses the increasing tensions between Ethiopia and Eritrea, emphasizing the need for diplomatic efforts over military action. He asserts that Ethiopia’s new ammunition factory does not correlate with impending war, while also addressing territorial claims around Assab. Asrat warns of the potential involvement of regional powers should conflict arise and critiques both governments for escalating rhetoric. He advocates for stronger legal frameworks before resorting to military solutions.
In a recent interview with Ethiopian Reporter, Gebru Asrat, a former TPLF executive and president of the Tigray Regional State, discussed the escalating tensions between Ethiopia and Eritrea. He analyzed the implications of Ethiopia’s new ammunition factory and military mobilization in Eritrea, asserting that there is no direct correlation between these developments and an impending war. Instead, he emphasized the necessity for Ethiopia to establish self-defense capability through domestic ammunition production to mitigate reliance on imports that could be interrupted for various reasons.
Asrat opined that there are no fundamental reasons justifying a war between Ethiopia and Eritrea at this time. He identified the strategic port of Assab as a possible conflict point, suggesting that Ethiopia has a legitimate claim to this territory. However, he criticized the Ethiopian government for its failure to construct a robust legal argument to present in international forums such as the United Nations and the African Union, warning against militaristic approaches that overlook diplomatic avenues.
Moreover, Asrat accused the Ethiopian government of misjudging Eritrean intentions, arguing that the ruling party in Eritrea seeks to weaken Ethiopia to enhance its own regional influence. He highlighted the issue of territorial control, asserting that Eritrea has unlawfully occupied Ethiopian land, specifically in the context of Assab. Despite Eritrean denials of such claims, Asrat maintained that Ethiopia’s reassertion of control is justified.
He echoed sentiments shared by other former TPLF leaders, predicting that regional powers such as Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Iran might intervene should conflict arise between Ethiopia and Eritrea. This perspective underscores broader geopolitical interests in the Horn of Africa.
Eritrean officials have reacted to these tensions, with Yemane Gebremeskel, the Eritrean Minister of Information, condemning what he terms the “war-mongering psychosis” permeating certain political circles in Ethiopia. Recent trends have seen both sides trading accusations and insults, particularly on social media platforms, exacerbating the already fragile relations.
In conclusion, Gebru Asrat’s insights emphasize the critical need for Ethiopia to prioritize diplomatic and legal strategies over military confrontations in its dealings with Eritrea. The assertion of Ethiopia’s rightful claims, particularly regarding Assab, should be bolstered by a well-prepared legal case in international forums. As regional dynamics play a significant role in this relationship, understanding the motivations of the Eritrean government remains essential to avoiding conflict. The precarious nature of the situation calls for measured discussions and actions to prevent further escalation.
Original Source: borkena.com
