Eritrea Withdraws from East African Bloc, Igad, Amid Tensions with Ethiopia
Eritrea has officially announced its withdrawal from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (Igad), criticizing the organization for allegedly acting against its interests. This move raises concerns about escalating tensions in the Horn of Africa, particularly between Eritrea and its neighboring nation, Ethiopia.
The significance of this development lies in Eritrea’s historical conflicts with Ethiopia and the potential for renewed violence in a region already stricken by instability. As Eritrea accuses Igad of failing to uphold its founding principles and siding with Ethiopia, the absence of Eritrea in Igad could hinder peace efforts and exacerbate regional tensions.
Key Developments
- Eritrea’s foreign ministry released a statement declaring the withdrawal, citing Igad’s deviation from its foundational mandate.
- Igad responded by stating Eritrea had not actively engaged in its meetings or programs since rejoining the bloc earlier this year.
- Rising tensions with Ethiopia have centered around Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s demands for Red Sea access, which Eritrea views as a threat to its sovereignty.
- This withdrawal marks the second time Eritrea has left Igad, having previously exited in 2007 over a border dispute with Ethiopia.
Full Report
Withdrawal Announcement
On Friday, Eritrea’s foreign ministry expressed its decision to withdraw from Igad, condemning the organization for becoming a “tool against” certain member states. The ministry claimed that Igad has not contributed to regional stability and has lost its legal authority. Eritrea emphasized that its withdrawal was necessary due to the absence of strategic benefits for its member states.
Response from Igad
In reaction to Eritrea’s statement, Igad noted that Eritrea had not made any meaningful contributions or proposals since rejoining the bloc in early 2023. The organization, which aims to promote food security and regional stability, includes various East African nations such as Ethiopia, Kenya, and Sudan.
Timely Context
As tensions between Eritrea and Ethiopia intensify, especially after Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s recent comments regarding maritime access, there are fears of escalating conflict. Eritrea, which gained independence from Ethiopia in 1993, has consistently accused its neighbors of attempting to undermine its sovereignty. The strained relations come against the backdrop of a 2019 peace deal that briefly thawed ties following a prolonged border war, claiming the lives of over 100,000 individuals.
Context & Previous Events
Eritrea’s previous withdrawal from Igad occurred in 2007 amid a border conflict with Ethiopia, but the nation rejoined the bloc earlier this year. Since its independence, Eritrea has maintained a wary stance toward Ethiopia, especially surrounding issues of maritime access and regional influence. Eritrea has also severed diplomatic ties with Djibouti, a key Igad member, after a border dispute in 2009. Accusations against Eritrea of complicity in regional instability have been met with strong denials from Asmara, which claims that foreign powers have sought to destabilize its government.
