Eritrea has called on the international community to pressure Ethiopia to respect regional sovereignty amid escalating tensions. Following a peace agreement in 2018 and the 2020-2022 Tigray war, relations have soured, especially over Ethiopia’s alleged maritime ambitions. Eritrean officials refute claims of military preparation for conflict, as experts warn that war could erupt at any time.
Eritrea has called upon the international community to urge Ethiopia to honor the sovereignty and territorial integrity of its neighboring countries. This statement comes amid escalating tensions between Eritrea and Ethiopia, who had previously established peace in 2018 following a long-standing enmity that began with Ethiopia’s independence in 1993. However, relations deteriorated further after the Tigray conflict from 2020 to 2022, during which Eritrea intervened against the Tigrayan forces.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s claims regarding Eritrea’s interest in the port of Assab have agitated Eritrean officials, as it is perceived as Ethiopia’s aspiration for maritime access. Yemane Gebremeskel, Eritrea’s Information Minister, expressed confusion over what he termed Ethiopia’s “misguided and outdated ambitions” for naval access, suggesting that Ethiopia’s motivations could involve diplomatic or military means. He emphasized the need for intervention from the international community to uphold regional territorial integrity.
Furthermore, Yemane dismissed allegations concerning Eritrea undertaking military preparations against Ethiopia as unfounded. Observers note a recent report from Human Rights Concern Eritrea (HRCE) suggesting that Asmara had initiated a nationwide military mobilization for residents under 60, though this report remains unverified by independent sources. Additionally, there have been reports of weapon convoys heading to northern Afar, an Ethiopian region adjacent to Eritrea.
General Tsadkan Gebretensae, a military strategist, warned that conflict between Ethiopia and Eritrea could erupt unexpectedly. This statement comes in light of the aftermath of a devastating war that resulted in approximately 600,000 fatalities, alongside ongoing skirmishes between rival factions in Tigray.
In conclusion, Eritrea has urged the international community to engage with Ethiopia regarding respect for sovereign rights amidst rising tensions. The historical enmity, exacerbated by recent conflicts, remains a pressing concern for regional security. Speculations about military mobilizations and the potential for conflict underline the fragile state of affairs in the Horn of Africa, necessitating diplomatic attention and resolution efforts to avoid further escalation.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
