Ethiopia Accuses Eritrea of Arming Rebels Amid Heightened Tensions
Ethiopian authorities have announced the seizure of over 56,000 rounds of ammunition allegedly delivered from Eritrea to a militant rebel faction, raising concerns about the potential for renewed conflict between the two neighboring nations. The accusations come at a precarious time as both countries grapple with a contentious history and escalating disputes over regional influence.
Why It Matters
The volatile relationship between Ethiopia and Eritrea, marked by past civil wars and territorial disputes, is crucial not only for regional stability in the Horn of Africa but also for international trade routes, particularly concerning access to the Red Sea. The recent allegations may threaten the fragile peace established after a long-standing civil war and could ignite further conflict, impacting communities on both sides of the border.
Key Developments
- Ethiopian police reported the seizure of munitions intended for the Fano rebels in the Amhara region.
- Two individuals have been arrested in connection with the arms shipment.
- Eritrea’s government has denied the accusations and rebuffed claims that it is supporting Ethiopian rebels.
- Rhetoric has intensified, with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed emphasizing the importance of access to the Red Sea.
- Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki stated that his country is prepared to defend itself against any aggression.
Full Report
On Wednesday, Ethiopian police reported the confiscation of over 56,000 rounds of ammunition that were allegedly sent from Eritrea to the armed Fano group, embroiled in the ongoing conflict within northern Ethiopia. The authorities arrested two suspects connected to the shipments and claimed that their initial findings point to Eritrea’s ruling party as the source of the arms. The police announced this information via a Facebook statement, aiming to underscore the threats posed by the growing insurgency.
In response, Eritrean Information Minister Yemane Gebremeskel categorically rejected the allegations. He accused Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s ruling Prosperity Party of fabricating excuses to justify potential military action against Eritrea, thus increasing the strain between the two nations. Abiy Ahmed has sought to encourage diplomatic dialogue regarding Ethiopia’s access to the Red Sea, describing it as an existential issue, although Eritrea has traditionally dismissed these claims.
The ongoing war of words underscores deep-seated distrust, as Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki accused Abiy’s regime of effectively declaring war on Eritrea. Despite denouncing the desire for conflict, Afwerki asserted Eritrea’s readiness to defend itself, marking a stark contrast to Abiy’s call for negotiations.
Context & Previous Events
The relationship between Eritrea and Ethiopia has been tumultuous since Eritrea gained independence in 1993, following a long struggle. This led to a border war in 1998, resulting in significant casualties. While a peace agreement in 2018 momentarily thawed relations, tensions resurfaced following Eritrea’s exclusion from the November 2022 peace deal that resolved a civil conflict in Ethiopia’s Tigray region. Over recent months, Ethiopia has faced violent uprisings by the Fano rebels, who have seized control of portions of the northern Amhara region.
