Ethiopian officials have indicated a potential return to war with Eritrea, risking another humanitarian crisis in the Horn of Africa amidst internal and historical tensions. The political landscape is complicated by divisions within the Tigray People’s Liberation Front. Experts warn that the current atmosphere constitutes dry tinder waiting for a match, with the potential involvement of regional powers exacerbating the situation.
Recent comments from officials in Ethiopia’s Tigray region indicate a potential escalation towards war between Ethiopia and Eritrea. Such a conflict would likely result in further humanitarian crises in the Horn of Africa, following a previous civil war in Tigray that resulted in a significant loss of life. Experts warn that direct engagements between the two nations could unravel the peace fostered by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s Nobel Peace Prize-winning efforts in 2019.
The current tensions stem from a division within the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), with factions developing differing loyalties. The dissident group recently took control of Adigrat, prompting calls for Ethiopian federal support from Tigray’s interim administrator. Concerns are growing that the Tigray populace may again suffer the consequences of a conflict they did not support.
As informal military buildup continues, the Eritrean government has mobilized its forces, while Ethiopia has reportedly repositioned troops near the border. The lack of public commentary from the Ethiopian federal government raises the stakes of the situation. Analysts have pointed out that the political and security conditions in Tigray suggest that any incident may ignite wider conflict.
Historical tensions between Ethiopia and Eritrea date back several decades, with Eritrea achieving independence in 1993 and subsequent border conflicts culminating in a 2018 peace agreement. However, recent remarks from Ethiopian officials regarding Ethiopia’s access to the sea have exacerbated divisions, prompting apprehension about potential military aggression. This deterioration of relations has led Eritrea to strengthen alliances with Egypt and Somalia, exacerbating the delicate regional dynamics.
In summary, the warnings from Tigray officials highlight the precarious relationship between Ethiopia and Eritrea, suggesting that renewed tensions could lead to a catastrophic conflict. The internal divisions within Tigray and historical grievances complicate the situation further. Without effective diplomatic engagements, the risk of war looms over the Horn of Africa, threatening regional stability and humanitarian conditions.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
