Eritrea, Egypt, and Somalia Form Alliance Against Ethiopia

The leaders of Eritrea, Egypt, and Somalia have met in Asmara to form an alliance against Ethiopia amid rising tensions. They emphasized respect for sovereignty and pledged to strengthen Somali institutions to combat terrorism. This arrangement stems from longstanding disputes among the nations, particularly pertaining to territorial issues and water rights associated with the Nile River. Recent military support from Egypt to Somalia further underscores the growing coalition against Ethiopia.

The leaders of Eritrea, Egypt, and Somalia have convened in Asmara, solidifying their collaboration against Ethiopia, with whom they share tense relations. An official statement from Eritrea emphasized respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of regional nations, which many interpret as a hint towards Ethiopia’s aspirations for maritime access, although Ethiopia was not explicitly mentioned in the summit’s discussions. A recent diplomatic rift has notably strengthened Somalia’s ties with Egypt and Eritrea, both having longstanding disputes with Ethiopia. Experts warn that this rising tension might escalate into conflict. Hassan Khannenje, director of the Horn International Institute for Strategic Studies, characterized this coalition as an opposition against the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, suggesting it aims to consolidate efforts to pressure Ethiopia. Following the summit, a photograph emerged showing President Isaias Afwerki of Eritrea, alongside Egypt’s President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi and Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, symbolizing their united front. The leaders vowed to bolster Somali governmental institutions to address various internal and external challenges, aiding the Somali National Federal Army in countering terrorism. Notably, this meeting marked President Sisi’s inaugural visit to Asmara, whereas President Mohamud had visited thrice earlier this year. Historically, Ethiopia has supported Somalia in combating the al-Qaeda-linked militant group al-Shabab, yet tensions have heightened after Ethiopia entered into a preliminary agreement with Somaliland regarding a lease of coastal territory, a move Somalia contests vehemently. Traditional hostilities between Addis Ababa and Cairo have persisted over Ethiopia’s establishment of a significant hydroelectric dam on the Nile River, which Egypt fears may diminish its crucial water supply. Recently, Egypt has supplied military resources to Somalia, including a substantial shipment of military equipment in September and arms deliveries in August. The relationship between Ethiopia and Eritrea saw hope for improvement in 2018 after Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s peace treaty with Eritrea, which earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2019. However, relations have since soured following Ethiopia’s civil conflict in the Tigray region and Abiy’s intentions to acquire port access on the Red Sea, further straining ties between the neighboring countries.

The geopolitical landscape in the Horn of Africa is heavily influenced by historical animosities and territorial disputes, particularly between Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Somalia. Eritrea and Ethiopia share a tumultuous history that included a devastating border war, while Somalia has ongoing disputes relating to territorial claims involving Somaliland. The formation of an alliance between Eritrea, Egypt, and Somalia is indicative of the shifting alliances and regional tensions, especially regarding water rights stemming from the Nile River and Ethiopia’s growing ambitions for improved trade access through maritime routes. As Ethiopia continues to assert its influence in the region, it finds itself increasingly isolated by its neighboring countries.

In conclusion, the summit between Eritrea, Egypt, and Somalia represents a significant development in the regional dynamics of the Horn of Africa, highlighting an emerging alliance against Ethiopia amidst ongoing disputes and tensions. Each country involved has its grievances with Ethiopia, which may lead to heightened instability and conflict in the region. The implications of these partnerships could be profound, potentially altering power balances and drawing international attention to the area as tensions escalate.

Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk