Tensions are running high between Ethiopia and Eritrea. The Ethiopian government has announced the closure of the Eritrean Embassy in Ethiopia and declared ten Eritrean diplomats, including the chargé d'affaires and other representatives to the African Union, as persona non grata. In retaliation, the Eritrean Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a stern statement rejecting Addis Ababa's accusations and blaming the Ethiopian government for the escalation.
Asmara claims that the Ethiopian government has attempted to justify what the statement calls 'unwarranted acts of hostility' by accusing Eritrea of 'direct and indirect acts of hostility and aggression against Ethiopia.' The Eritrean ministry describes the situation as 'truly astonishing,' asserting that Ethiopia has pursued a 'relentless agenda of hostility' towards Eritrea over the past three years, which Asmara interprets as 'effectively a publicly declared war.'
The core of the dispute revolves around Ethiopia's access to the Red Sea. The Eritrean government alleges that Addis Ababa has been driven by the 'imperative to secure sovereign access to the sea,' with Asmara claiming that Ethiopia aims to invade 'Eritrea's sovereign ports and coastal areas.' This issue is part of a broader context of Ethiopian ambitions to secure stable sea access, a topic that has fueled significant regional tensions in recent years.
Additionally, the Eritrean Foreign Ministry accuses Addis Ababa of hosting, training, and arming Eritrean opposition groups. 'Alongside these aggressive intentions,' the statement reads, 'Ethiopia has gone further by hosting, training, and providing weapons to what it calls "armed Eritrean opposition groups."' Asmara believes this is intended to stir internal conflict in Eritrea and promote a 'regime change.'
The Eritrean government claims it has maintained a cautious stance in recent years to prevent further escalation. 'During these challenging times, Eritrea has shown patience and restraint in hopes of avoiding a dangerous escalation,' the statement asserts. However, in light of recent developments, Asmara announces a shift in its approach.
'Under the current circumstances, Eritrea has no choice but to respond in kind and sever all diplomatic ties with Ethiopia, with all the negative consequences this entails,' concludes the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
This declaration marks the breakdown of diplomatic relations between Eritrea and Ethiopia, ushering in a new phase of heightened tension between the two Horn of Africa nations.
(Associated Medias) - All rights reserved