Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has ruled out conflict with Eritrea over Red Sea access, emphasizing dialogue despite rising military tensions. Eritrea’s military mobilization and accusations of Ethiopian ambitions over the port of Assab have exacerbated concerns. The peace established in 2019 is at risk amid local political strife and factional disputes within Tigray.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has firmly stated that Ethiopia will not engage in conflict with Eritrea regarding access to the Red Sea, emphasizing a commitment to dialogue. Amid rising tensions and fears of war, Abiy clarified that despite the landlocked nation’s urgent need for access to maritime routes, the government is determined to resolve the issue peacefully.
Concerns escalated recently after Eritrea mobilized its military and Ethiopia dispatched troops toward their common border. Abiy’s aspirations for Red Sea access have caused irritation in Eritrea, which accuses Ethiopia of seeking control over the port of Assab. Eritrean Information Minister Yemane Gebremeskel criticized Ethiopia’s intentions, urging the international community to influence Ethiopia to respect Eritrean sovereignty.
The potential for renewed conflict threatens to undo the historic peace established between Ethiopia and Eritrea, which led to Abiy receiving the Nobel Peace Prize in 2019. The previous civil war in Ethiopia involved Eritrean forces, supporting Ethiopia’s government against the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). Recent political developments have further complicated relations, particularly after a peace agreement that excluded Eritrea.
Tension within the interim administration of Tigray has also heightened, with factions accusing one another of betrayal. In a parliamentary address, Abiy announced a one-year extension of the current interim administration, alluding to potential amendments, though he did not specify any changes in leadership, which has been a critical demand from dissenting factions.
In summary, Ethiopia’s leaders, particularly Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, are striving for a peaceful resolution to access the Red Sea, aiming to avoid any conflict with Eritrea. Rising military tensions have sparked concerns, particularly in light of previous conflicts and ongoing political strife in Tigray. The situation remains delicate, with both international observers and local factions watching closely as Ethiopia navigates this complex landscape.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
