Ethiopia: Risk of Renewed Conflict Mounts As Troop Movements Reported Near Eritrea-Tigray Border
Ethiopia and Eritrea are increasing military presence near the Tigray border, heightening the potential for renewed conflict in the region.
Military buildups are being reported near the Tigray region of Ethiopia, with both Ethiopian and Eritrean forces deploying troops and equipment. This increase in military readiness has raised concerns over the possibility of renewed conflict in the Horn of Africa, especially given the unresolved tensions that linger following the cessation of hostilities agreement signed three years ago and the ongoing fallout from the conflict in Sudan.
Sources indicate that Ethiopian military assets are being mobilized from various locations towards the north, with Eritrean forces also moving into Tigray. This development could signal a significant escalation in hostilities, considering the historical grievances and issues that have not been fully resolved between the Ethiopian government and the Tigrayan authorities. Social media has seen a rise in unverified footage depicting military convoys, further fueling fears of impending violence.
Moreover, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has spoken of Ethiopia's goals regarding access to the Red Sea, indicating that these troop movements may also be tied to broader strategic ambitions in the region. As tensions escalate, the potential for conflict not only threatens the stability of Ethiopia but could also have ripple effects across the Horn of Africa, which is already facing numerous challenges.