Eritrea has urged the international community to pressure Ethiopia to respect the sovereignty of its neighbors as tensions rise between the two countries. Relations have worsened since the Tigray war, with claims of Ethiopia’s ambitions for maritime access. Eritrea has dismissed accusations of military preparations and cited the need for diplomatic resolution.
On Wednesday, Eritrea called for the international community to urge Ethiopia to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of its neighboring countries, as tensions escalate between the two nations in the Horn of Africa. Following a peace agreement in 2018, hostility resurfaced after the Tigray war from 2020 to 2022, during which Eritrea engaged militarily against Ethiopia alongside the Tigrayan forces.
Eritrea’s government voiced concerns over Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s claims regarding the port of Assab, asserting Ethiopia’s ambitions for maritime access. Yemane Gebremeskel, the Minister of Information, expressed dismay at Ethiopia’s “misguided and outdated ambitions,” and emphasized the need for diplomatic or military solutions.
Gebremeskel urged global stakeholders to compel Ethiopia to honor its neighbors’ sovereignty, as he dismissed accusations of Eritrean war preparations against Ethiopia. While Ethiopian officials did not respond to media inquiries, a February report by Human Rights Concern Eritrea indicated a nationwide military mobilization in Eritrea for those under 60 years of age, which AFP was unable to verify.
Security sources reported weapons convoys heading towards northern Afar, Ethiopia, adjacent to Eritrea, raising fears of imminent conflict. General Tsadkan Gebretensae, a military strategist, warned that war could erupt between Ethiopia and Eritrea at any moment, reflecting the severe and prolonged instability in the region, which has already witnessed significant casualties, as at least 600,000 lives were lost during previous conflicts.
Eritrea’s recent statements highlight the urgency for Ethiopia to acknowledge the sovereignty of its neighbors, especially amidst rising tensions following historical conflicts. The international community plays a critical role in advocating for peace and stability in this volatile region. Both nations must navigate their historical grievances while preventing further escalation of military actions, which may lead to dire humanitarian consequences.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
