Eritrea is reportedly closing its embassy in Ethiopia amid escalating tensions. The embassy is sending staff home, leaving only a representative to the African Union. Eritrea’s Minister of Information accused Ethiopia of warmongering. Mobilization reports suggest Eritrea is preparing for potential conflict, linked to recent political fallout between the two nations. Accusations of military collaboration and a potential war continue to escalate tensions.
Eritrea is reportedly shutting down its embassy in Addis Ababa amid escalating tensions with Ethiopia. Sources indicate that the embassy staff is being sent home, leaving only the Eritrean representative to the African Union operational. This action is occurring swiftly, although Eritrea’s Ministry of Information has not confirmed or denied the closure, and Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has yet to comment.
While Ethiopia maintains an embassy in Asmara, no ambassador is currently appointed to that mission. Eritrea’s Minister of Information, Yemane Gebreab, has publicly accused Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s government of “externalizing its internal problems” and engaging in “warmongering.” This follows a statement from former Ethiopian President Mulatu Teshome, who suggested that Eritrea collaborates with certain factions of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) to wage war against Ethiopia.
Reports suggest Eritrea has initiated a nationwide mobilization, requiring men up to 60 years of age to prepare for potential conflict. The deterioration in relations stems from the fallout of the Pretoria Agreement, which concluded a bloody war between the TPLF-led Tigray region and the Ethiopian federal government in November 2022. Although Eritrea disputes any connection between the tensions and the agreement, accusations of Eritrea arming the Fano forces and conspiring with TPLF factions have emerged.
In recent developments, Abiy Ahmed has reportedly instructed his military leadership to be prepared for action. Concurrently, his government is actively supporting Eritrean opposition groups known as Brigade Nhamedu, raising concerns about an impending conflict between the two nations, even as some Eritrean activists express doubt over Abiy Ahmed’s military readiness to engage in warfare with Eritrea.
The situation between Eritrea and Ethiopia remains tense, with the closure of Eritrea’s embassy indicating a significant deterioration in relations. Accusations of warmongering and military mobilization reflect the mounting fears of conflict. The complexities surrounding the recent political developments, particularly the Pretoria Agreement and ongoing military preparations, heighten concerns regarding stability in the region. As the relationship evolves, both nations stand at a precarious crossroads that may lead to further conflict.
Original Source: borkena.com