Egypt’s Strategic Alliance Against Ethiopian Influence in the Horn of Africa

In October, the leaders of Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia met in Asmara, pledging military support for Somalia against terrorism, viewed as Egypt’s counter to Ethiopia’s growing influence. As tensions over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam and the Entebbe Agreement escalate, Egypt is working to regain African allies and strengthen military ties, reflecting its declining influence since the Nasser era.

In early October, a significant trilateral summit convened in Asmara, where the leaders of Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia affirmed their military collaboration, particularly in supporting Somalia’s counterterrorism initiatives. This meeting is seen as a strategic maneuver by Egypt to counteract Ethiopia’s expanding influence in the region, underscored by Ethiopia’s earlier agreement to lease part of Somaliland’s coastline in return for recognition of its independence. Egypt’s long-standing diplomatic conflict with Ethiopia has intensified due to the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), which Cairo perceives as a critical threat to its national security. Recent developments have also included the activation of the Entebbe Agreement, which poses further challenges to Egypt and Sudan’s water security in the Nile Basin. Professor Iman Abdel Azim from Cairo University notes that Egypt has increasingly prioritized strengthening its ties with African nations, engaging in both military and diplomatic efforts.

The geopolitical landscape in the Horn of Africa has been marked by Egypt’s growing concerns over Ethiopia’s actions regarding the Nile River and the GERD. Egypt has found itself in a delicate position, grappling with its water security while attempting to rally other nations against perceived Ethiopian aggression. The 2011 Entebbe Agreement signifies a pivotal point in Nile water negotiations, yet Egypt’s efforts to secure cooperative agreements have faltered over the past decade, leading to Egypt’s formal alliances with other states in response to Ethiopia’s unilateral actions. The historical context of Egypt’s influence in Africa, stemming from the Nasser era, contrasts starkly with its current diminished status, as noted by various experts.

The evolving alliance among Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia reflects Cairo’s strategic response to Ethiopia’s growing dominance in the region, particularly regarding the Nile waters and the GERD. As military collaborations expand, Egypt seeks to reclaim its historical role in Africa by fostering partnerships that can pressure Ethiopia into negotiations. Meanwhile, Ethiopia’s actions to solidify its interests signal a rising tension that could lead to further geopolitical conflicts. Therefore, monitoring these developments is critical for understanding the future of water security and regional stability in the Horn of Africa.

Original Source: www.newarab.com