Eritrea demands international pressure on Ethiopia to respect neighboring sovereignty amidst rising tensions, worsened since the Tigray conflict. Eritrean officials refute claims of military aggression and indicate territorial disputes over sea access. Heightened military mobilization raises fears of an imminent war, echoing the tragic losses in prior conflicts.
On Wednesday, Eritrea emphasized the necessity for the international community to pressure Ethiopia into honoring the “sovereignty and territorial integrity of its neighbours” amidst rising tensions between the two countries. Despite a peace agreement reached in 2018, relations have deteriorated following the 2020–2022 Tigray conflict, during which Eritrea fought against Ethiopia’s involvement alongside the Tigrayan forces.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has exacerbated tensions by alleging Eritrea’s ambitions regarding the port of Assab, suggesting that Eritrea seeks to provide landlocked Ethiopia with maritime access. Yemane Gebremeskel, Eritrean Information Minister, expressed confusion over Ethiopia’s “misguided and outdated ambitions for maritime access and naval bases ‘through diplomacy or military force.’ He urged international action to ensure Ethiopia respects its neighbors’ sovereignty, countering claims of Eritrea’s military aggression as “false accusations.”
Previous reports indicate that Eritrea has implemented a “nationwide military mobilisation” for residents under 60. While the validity of this claim remains unconfirmed, convoys of weapons were reportedly heading to northern Afar, which borders Eritrea. The heightened military activities have raised concerns, with General Tsadkan Gebretensae cautioning that “a war between Ethiopia and Eritrea could break out at any moment,” underscoring the region’s precarious stability after recent deadly conflicts. The previous war resulted in approximately 600,000 deaths, and ongoing clashes continue to threaten the area’s peace.
In summary, Eritrea’s call for Ethiopia to respect neighboring sovereignty comes in light of increased tensions following their historic peace agreement. The Eritrean government views allegations of its military preparations as unfounded, whilst military mobilization efforts reflect growing regional instability. Expert warnings indicate an urgent need for international intervention to avoid a potential resurgence of conflict, following the devastating consequences of past wars.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
