Ethiopia Signals Potential Threat from TPLF and Eritrea
ADDIS ABABA – In a recent development, Ethiopia has raised alarms about the intentions of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) and Eritrea, alleging a coordinated attack during the forthcoming rainy season. This accusation coincides with a diplomatic warning to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio about these threats.
Gedion Timothewos, the country’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, underscored their findings, citing “credible evidence” that Eritrea and TPLF are collaborating with armed factions to initiate a major offensive. It’s not merely speculation, but something Ethiopia urges the international community to pay keen attention to.
Leading up to this, Eritrea has been accused by Ethiopia of repeated provocations that jeopardize its territorial sanctity. Such actions, spelled out in a letter dated June 20, are labeled a “flagrant violation of international law” as reported by Addis Standard. The broader implications are concerning too; could such tensions indeed threaten the fragile peace within the Horn of Africa?
In a step towards resolving long-standing frictions, Ethiopia attempted to recalibrate its relationship with Eritrea back in 2018 by signing a Joint Declaration of Peace and Friendship. This initiative was recognized globally when Abiy Ahmed was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize the following year. “Ethiopia took the initiative,” Gedion wrote, emphasizing efforts born out of “fraternal ties and shared prosperity.”
“Even amid rising tensions, Ethiopia remained steadfast in its commitment to peace.”
The complexities of allegiance during the Tigray conflict are notable. Eritrean troops supported the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF), provoking international condemnation. The United Nations has previously called for sanctions against Eritrean forces. In response, Ethiopia now accuses Eritrea of exploiting the war to destabilize and weaken Ethiopia further.
Post the Pretoria agreement, diplomatic temperaments have cooled. Yet, Ethiopia claims that Eritrea has adopted “an increasingly hostile posture.” Despite continuous provocations, Gedion asserts that Ethiopia has “exercised maximum restraint,” urging the global community to encourage Eritrea to honor Ethiopia’s sovereignty.
Contrarily, Eritrea issued a statement refuting these claims, alleging that Ethiopia is masking a “long-brewing war agenda.” This rhetoric, according to Eritrea, is strategically crafted to justify potential aggression. The Ministry pointed out Ethiopia’s “provocative saber-rattling” and accused the government, led by the Prosperity Party, of pursuing regional dominance through “a weapons purchasing spree.”
Looking towards regional cooperation, Ethiopia is keen on accessing the sea, envisioning peaceful entry through Eritrean and Somali borders. “We want access to the sea, not by force, but through mutual understanding,” Abiy Ahmed articulated, echoing a hope for diplomacy over conflict.
Abiy addressed lawmakers, dispelling fears of impending conflict with Eritrea, stating unequivocally that Ethiopia has no desire for war. “Ethiopia doesn’t desire any conflict… and they should also do the same.” He reassured citizens of Ethiopia’s capability to defend itself, calling attention to its “large economy, significant population, and modern army.”
Yet, one might ponder: in a region fraught with historical tension and the ever-looming clouds of war, what measures are essential to forge a path toward lasting peace? Since assuming leadership, Ahmed has navigated myriad challenges with neighbors and within. The tale of Ethiopia, with its dynamic and complex relationships, continues to evolve.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International–Monitoring.
