Ethiopia Declares No Intention of Conflict with Eritrea Over Red Sea Access
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has asserted that Ethiopia will not pursue conflict with Eritrea over Red Sea access, advocating for diplomatic resolution. Recent military mobilizations by Eritrea and tensions related to the Tigray conflict complicate regional stability. Abiy’s government remains committed to dialogue despite accusations from Eritrea regarding Ethiopia’s maritime ambitions.
Ethiopia’s Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed, has declared that Ethiopia will not engage in conflict with Eritrea over access to the Red Sea. Amid growing concerns about potential warfare, he emphasized that his government seeks to resolve the matter through peaceful dialogue. The Prime Minister articulated this stance following a recent military mobilization ordered by Eritrea, which raised alarms regarding escalated hostilities between the two nations.
Despite the critical need for access to the Red Sea for landlocked Ethiopia, Abiy reiterated his commitment to a diplomatic approach, distancing his administration from aggressive pursuits that could lead to conflict. He remarked that Ethiopia is not intent on pursuing maritime access via any form of military action, affirming his focus on peaceful negotiations.
Tensions have been exacerbated by Eritrean accusations against Ethiopia, alleging that Ethiopia harbors ambitions towards the port of Assab. Eritrea’s Information Minister, Yemane Gebremeskel, remarked on social media, criticizing Ethiopia’s perceived outdated aspirations while calling on the international community for intervention to uphold Eritrea’s sovereignty.
The specter of renewed conflict looms particularly in the context of previous strife, including the civil war involving the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). The involvement of Eritrean forces during the Tigray conflict led to a fragile peace that was compromised by subsequent dissension within the Tigrayan interim government. The current political climate reflects deepening divisions and accusations among the factions within Tigray, complicating the regional stability.
Ethiopia’s Prime Minister has assured that his nation will not seek military conflict with Eritrea regarding Red Sea access, instead favoring dialogue as the means for resolution. This approach is crucial given the existing tensions stemming from military mobilizations and past conflicts, emphasizing the importance of peace and stability in the Horn of Africa.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
