Eritrea, Egypt, and Somalia have formed an alliance against Ethiopia during a recent summit in Asmara, where leaders emphasized sovereignty and territorial integrity. The meeting highlights tensions regarding Ethiopia’s maritime ambitions and its agreements with Somaliland. Military cooperation has also increased, particularly with the delivery of arms to Somalia from Egypt, amid fears of escalating conflict in the region.
Recently, leaders from Eritrea, Egypt, and Somalia convened in Asmara, signaling a potential shift in alliances aimed at countering Ethiopia’s influence in the region. The summit concluded with a declaration emphasizing the “respect for the sovereignty… and territorial integrity of the countries in the region,” which could suggest apprehensions regarding Ethiopia’s aspirations for maritime access despite the nation’s absence from direct reference. This diplomatic alignment among Somalia, Eritrea, and Egypt emerges amidst Somalia’s dissatisfaction with Ethiopia’s recent agreement with Somaliland, as well as the long-standing tensions between Ethiopia and Egypt over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam on the Nile River. During the meeting, the three countries’ leaders, President Isaias Afwerki of Eritrea, President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi of Egypt, and President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia, discussed bolstering Somali state institutions and enhancing the Somali National Federal Army’s capacity to combat terrorism. The formation of this tripartite alliance raises concerns about an escalation in regional tensions, as commentators note that these nations collectively represent an axis aimed at increasing pressure on the Ethiopian government in Addis Ababa. Notably, recent deliveries of military supplies from Egypt to Somalia signal a deepening military cooperation between these countries. Although an earlier peace accord between Ethiopia and Eritrea in 2018 had fostered hopes for improved relations after years of conflict, recent developments have seen a reversion to hostility. Ethiopia, driven by its ambition for a port, has reignited regional rivalries, bringing new layers of complexity to the already volatile situation in the Horn of Africa.
The geopolitical landscape in the Horn of Africa has been shaped by long-standing rivalries and conflicts, particularly involving Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Somalia. The historical context includes a brutal border war between Ethiopia and Eritrea that lasted until a peace agreement was reached in 2018. However, tensions resurfaced following Ethiopia’s two-year civil conflict in Tigray, which strained ties again with Eritrea. Additionally, Somalia has experienced complex relationships with these neighboring states, complicating alliances and rivalries further influenced by Ethiopia’s recent agreements and substantial military engagements with Somaliland, which Somalia sees as a part of its national territory. Furthermore, Egypt and Ethiopia have been engaged in a protracted dispute over Ethiopia’s Nile dam project, which Egypt fears may diminish its water resources.
In conclusion, the recent summit between Eritrea, Egypt, and Somalia marks a significant realignment of regional powers aimed at countering Ethiopia’s aspirations and policies. The creation of this axis highlights ongoing tensions, particularly concerning military collaboration, territorial integrity, and resource disputes. As these relationships evolve, the risk of conflict in the Horn of Africa remains a pressing concern, necessitating close observation and diplomatic engagement from international stakeholders.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
