Amid escalating tensions in northern Ethiopia, the governments of Ethiopia and Eritrea have decided to sever diplomatic ties. This move comes as renewed hostilities in the region raise concerns of a broader regional conflict.
Diplomatic Breakdown
On Thursday, Ethiopia announced the closure of its embassy in Eritrea’s capital, Asmara, and demanded that ten Eritrean diplomats leave Ethiopia within 48 hours, citing national security threats. In response, Eritrea announced a complete severance of diplomatic relations, stating that Ethiopia’s actions left it no choice but to reciprocate.
The situation has further deteriorated with the pro-government militia claiming control of Milazat, a town located just 20 kilometers southeast of Tigray’s capital, Mekelle. However, these claims remain unverified by independent sources.
Regional Tensions and Military Activities
The diplomatic rift coincides with reports of explosions in Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa, near military headquarters, reflecting the strained relations between the two nations. Ethiopia has accused Eritrea of backing a new rebel alliance, an allegation that Eritrea has consistently denied.
Additionally, Ethiopia expelled an Egyptian diplomat, which led to a reciprocal expulsion of an Ethiopian official by Egypt. The longstanding tensions between Ethiopia and Egypt primarily revolve around the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and its implications for Nile water distribution.
Historical Context and Current Alliances
The diplomatic fallout marks a significant shift since the 2018 restoration of relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea, a move that had ended two decades of hostility and earned Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed the Nobel Peace Prize in 2019.
Currently, Ethiopian forces are engaged in conflicts with the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) and their allies across the northern regions of Tigray, Afar, and Amhara. The situation is compounded by the TPLF’s recent alliance with other armed groups aiming to oust Prime Minister Abiy’s government.
Humanitarian Impact and International Response
The African Union has called for restraint and diplomatic resolutions, warning against actions that could destabilize the region further. The United Nations has echoed these concerns, highlighting the severe disruption of humanitarian efforts due to the conflict.
The UN has urged all parties to ensure safe access for aid and to protect civilians amid ongoing military actions, including drone strikes and air raids, which threaten infrastructure and humanitarian operations in northern Ethiopia.
