Ethiopia’s Prime Minister has dismissed the notion of conflict with Eritrea over Red Sea access, advocating for peaceful dialogue amidst escalating tensions. Recent military mobilizations and accusations between the two nations highlight the fragile situation. Meanwhile, internal strife in Tigray adds complexity to Ethiopia’s political landscape, as the interim administration faces challenges from competing factions.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has emphasized that Ethiopia will not engage in conflict with Eritrea over access to the Red Sea. He reiterated this commitment to a peaceful dialogue in light of recent concerns regarding potential warfare between the two nations. “Ethiopia does not have any intention of engaging in conflict with Eritrea for the purpose of gaining access to the sea,” he stated, underscoring his government’s preference for negotiation over confrontation.
Recent tensions escalated when Eritrea announced a nationwide military mobilization, coinciding with Ethiopia repositioning troops near the border. These developments have heightened fears of war, especially given Eritrea’s allegations that Ethiopia is pursuing access to the port of Assab. It should be noted that Eritrean Information Minister Yemane Gebremeskel has publicly criticized Ethiopia’s ambitions, labeling them as misguided and outmoded.
Abiy’s government views access to the Red Sea as critical, despite being landlocked. In response to rising tensions, Abiy expressed the necessity for dialogue to resolve these issues amicably. Yemane Gebremeskel called upon the international community to exert pressure on Ethiopia, asserting that such actions aim to maintain territorial integrity between the nations.
These newly intensified hostilities risk undoing the historic peace treaty that Abiy earned a Nobel Prize for in 2019, a situation further complicated by internal discord in Tigray. The 2020-2022 civil war left lasting scars, with Eritrean forces having previously supported Ethiopia. Notably, the peace agreement established in Pretoria in November 2022 has alienated Eritrea, as it was not included in negotiations.
In parliament, Abiy announced an extension of the Tigray interim administration for an additional year while indicating future elections in 2026. As internal factions of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front vie for control, mutual accusations of betrayal highlight the precarious nature of regional stability. Abiy did not specify if amendments would include new leadership, a crucial demand of dissident factions.
In conclusion, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has assured that Ethiopia does not intend to engage in conflict with Eritrea over access to the Red Sea, opting for peaceful dialogue instead. Despite rising tensions and military mobilization by Eritrea, both nations face critical choices impacting regional stability. The internal dynamics within Tigray and the post-war administration further complicate the relationship, underscoring the need for sustained diplomatic efforts and cooperation.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
