Gebru Asrat, a former TPLF official, warned against immediate military action between Eritrea and Ethiopia, emphasizing the need for diplomatic efforts regarding territorial claims. He noted the importance of domestic ammunition production amidst tensions and accused Eritrea of land control. Officials in Eritrea reacted to accusations of war preparation, stressing the need for dialogue.
In a recent interview, Gebru Asrat, a former official of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) and ex-president of the Tigray Regional State, discussed the deteriorating relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea amid accusations of possible conflict. Following the inauguration of an ammunition factory in Ethiopia and military movements in Eritrea, concerns have escalated regarding the potential for war.
Despite fears of impending conflict, Gebru dismissed any direct link between the ammunition factory’s opening and an imminent war. He emphasized the importance of domestic ammunition production for self-defense, mitigating reliance on foreign imports that could be hindered by various challenges.
He highlighted that, at present, there are no substantial reasons for Ethiopia and Eritrea to engage in warfare, although he identified Assab as a vital point of contention. He cautioned against hasty military actions and suggested that Ethiopia should focus on building a legal case for Assab, presenting it through international platforms like the United Nations and the African Union instead of rushing towards military intervention.
Moreover, Gebru criticized Ethiopian politicians for misunderstanding Eritrea’s strategies, claiming, “What they want is a weak Ethiopia so that they can emerge as a powerful player in the region.” He accused Eritrea of unlawfully holding Ethiopian land, specifically stating that it was Eritrea that initiated the illegal control of Assab.
Foreseeing potential foreign intervention in the event of conflict, Gebru noted that regional powers such as Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Iran may have interests at stake. Meanwhile, Eritrean officials highlighted the rhetoric of war from certain Ethiopian political entities as alarming, with Minister of Information Yemane Gebremeskel referring to it as “war-mongering psychosis.”
As discussions intensify over the relations between the two nations, Gebru Asrat’s insights bring attention to the necessity of diplomacy over military options, underscoring the complexities of geopolitics in the Horn of Africa.
In conclusion, Gebru Asrat’s interview sheds light on the critical need for diplomatic engagement before resorting to military action between Ethiopia and Eritrea. He argues for legal strategies to resolve territorial disputes, reflecting on the risks of conflict and the interests of foreign powers in the region. The situation remains fragile, necessitating careful consideration of actions taken by both nations to prevent escalation.
Original Source: borkena.com
