Ethiopia and Eritrea Face Rising Tensions Amidst Threat of War

Ethiopia and Eritrea are reportedly on the verge of war, according to Tigray officials. The resurgence of internal conflict within Tigray, alongside regional political tensions, poses a severe threat to humanitarian stability. Historical enmity, military mobilizations, and deteriorating relations indicate a precarious situation calling for urgent attention from the international community.

Recent military tensions in the Horn of Africa suggest that Ethiopia and Eritrea may be on the brink of war, according to officials from Ethiopia’s Tigray region. This potential conflict poses serious humanitarian concerns, especially considering the historical peace efforts initiated by Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, which earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2019. Experts caution that such an escalation could attract involvement from additional regional powers and exacerbate the ongoing crises in neighboring countries.

General Tsadkan Gebretensae from Tigray’s interim administration warned that conflict could erupt at any moment. He highlighted the recent civil war in Tigray from 2020 to 2022, which resulted in massive casualties. The current fears stem from a split within the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), resulting in opposing factions, one supported by Ethiopia’s federal government and another seeking to ally with Eritrea, raising tensions in the region.

In light of the conflicts, the head of Tigray’s interim administration, Getachew Reda, has requested federal support against the dissident faction, which protests any affiliation with Eritrea. This sentiment amplifies fears of the Tigrayan people becoming collateral damage in an uncertain military conflict.

Despite the heightened tensions, Ethiopia’s federal government has remained silent, while Eritrean officials have dismissed the warnings as “war-mongering.” Nonetheless, Eritrea has initiated military mobilization and Ethiopia has reportedly stationed troops near the border, indicating pre-war preparedness.

The risk of conflict is heightened according to former U.S. and EU envoys, who metaphorically described the situation in Tigray as “dry tinder waiting for a match,” pointing to the deteriorating political and security climate. Historical animosities are rooted deeply, tracing back to Eritrea’s independence from Ethiopia in 1993 and the border war from 1998–2000.

The peace agreement of 2018 was a significant turning point; however, the exclusion of Eritrea from ongoing negotiations has strained relations once more. Subsequently, comments by Abiy suggesting Ethiopia’s need for sea access have further agitated Eritrean officials, creating fears of possible military confrontation. The situation is compounded by Eritrea’s recent security pact with Egypt and Somalia, perceived as a strategic maneuver against Ethiopia.

In summary, the escalating tensions between Ethiopia and Eritrea raise significant concerns regarding a potential military conflict that could have dire humanitarian consequences in the Horn of Africa. The implications of internal divisions within Ethiopia’s Tigray region, historical animosities, and external alliances contribute to the unrest. Vigilance and strategic diplomatic efforts are essential to de-escalate the situation and prevent further crises in an already challenged region.

Original Source: www.thestar.com.my