Egypt Forms Security Alliance with Somalia and Eritrea Amidst…

Egypt is forging a new security alliance with Somalia and Eritrea amidst rising tensions with Ethiopia. This trilateral relationship, highlighted by a series of discussions led by Egyptian President al-Sisi, aims to bolster regional stability and security. However, it may increase hostilities in the Horn of Africa, particularly concerning Ethiopia’s military ambitions and territorial disputes.

In a strategic move that could heighten tensions in the Horn of Africa, Egypt is forging a new security alliance involving Somalia and Eritrea. During his visit to Asmara, Eritrea, on Thursday, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi engaged in trilateral discussions with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki. The focus of these talks will be on enhancing bilateral relations and ensuring stability in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea, and a summit is anticipated to further these objectives. Prior to President al-Sisi’s arrival, Presidents Mohamud and Afwerki had their own bilateral meeting, which touched upon regional and international matters of shared concern. Reports indicate that these leaders are making efforts to fortify each other’s territory, seemingly aimed at countering Ethiopia’s influence. The Eritrean Ministry of Information highlighted the importance of cooperative efforts, stating, “the two leaders underscored the imperative of further bolstering the bilateral cooperation of the two sisterly countries in the heavy tasks of the maintenance of the sovereignty, territorial integrity, independence, and unity of Somalia.” Additionally, their discussions emphasized the development of strong national institutions including effective defense and security systems. Over the past three years, Eritrea has been instrumental in training members of the Somali National Army. The involvement of Egypt, particularly in terms of military cooperation, has raised concerns amid ongoing tensions with Ethiopia. Egypt recently entered into a defense agreement with Somalia, offering military training, equipment, and the possibility of deploying troops for a new African Union mission to succeed the current one set to expire in December. Tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia have intensified following Ethiopia’s controversial memorandum of understanding with Somaliland, which included military provisions in exchange for recognition of Somaliland’s independence. Somalia has vehemently protested this arrangement at international forums, alleging illegal arms shipments from Ethiopia to Somali territory. Ethiopia maintains a diplomatic presence in Somalia through the African Union mission, yet Somalia is reportedly looking to terminate this cooperation, seeing Ethiopia as a direct threat. There are fears that Egypt’s support to Somalia could destabilize the region further, especially given Ethiopia’s suspicions regarding Cairo’s provision of arms. The implications of an alliance between Egypt, Somalia, and Eritrea are multifaceted. For Somalia, it presents an opportunity for solidified defense against perceived Ethiopian aggression; for Egypt, it offers a strategic buffer against Ethiopia, particularly in relation to the contentious Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. Eritrea may see this alliance as a chance to counter Ethiopia, with whom it has had complex relations since the Tigray conflict. Recent diplomatic efforts by Turkey to mediate between Somalia and Ethiopia may diminish as this new alliance takes shape. Ahead of this trip to Eritrea, Egypt’s Foreign Minister discussed the current stance on various regional issues with African ambassadors, reiterating Egypt’s ongoing commitment to stability in the Horn of Africa and highlighting the vital importance of the Red Sea for Egypt’s economic interests. As tensions rise, the dynamics in the Horn of Africa are shifting, with the exclusion of Ethiopia from this newly emerging alliance potentially catalyzing further discord in an already volatile region.

The Horn of Africa has been a region of complex geopolitical tensions, especially concerning the relationships among Egypt, Somalia, Eritrea, and Ethiopia. Historically, Eritrea and Ethiopia have had a tumultuous relationship; recent developments regarding Ethiopia’s Grand Renaissance Dam have further strained relations, particularly with Egypt, which relies heavily on the Nile’s waters. The establishment of closer ties between Egypt, Somalia, and Eritrea could significantly alter the power dynamics in the region, particularly in light of Ethiopia’s increasing military readiness and ambitions, such as its recent naval initiatives near Somaliland. These developments have raised alarms concerning territorial integrity and sovereignty among the countries involved, highlighting the necessity for robust alliances amidst ongoing conflicts.

In summary, Egypt’s efforts to establish a security alliance with Somalia and Eritrea signal a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape of the Horn of Africa. As these nations attempt to fortify their respective territories against perceived Ethiopian encroachments, the potential for increased regional instability looms large. The dynamics of this alliance could redefine security arrangements and alter power balances in the region, especially given Ethiopia’s existing military presence and historical grievances. A unified front among these three states may serve to either enhance stability or contribute to escalating tensions, depending on the outcomes of their agreements and cooperative efforts.

Original Source: nation.africa