In a bold statement on Thursday, Eritrea accused its historic rival, Ethiopia, of engaging in an “intense campaign” of derogatory statements. This comes amid rising tensions between the two Horn of Africa nations.
The relationship between Eritrea and Ethiopia has been fraught with conflict since Eritrea’s independence in 1993. Although they signed a peace agreement in 2018, recent developments have once again strained their ties.
Yemane Gebremeskel, Eritrea’s Information Minister, took to social media to accuse Ethiopia of “malicious provocations” against Eritrea. He specifically cited Ethiopia’s deal with Somaliland to set up a port by the Red Sea, calling it part of a larger regional crisis.
Gebremeskel emphasized that Ethiopia’s actions continue to stir “unnecessary chaos” and exacerbate tensions in the region. He expressed concern over the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the Somaliland agreement.
Meanwhile, Ethiopia has yet to respond to Eritrea’s accusations. On Monday, former Ethiopian President Mulatu Teshome criticized Eritrea’s President Isaias Afwerki, labeling him a “pyromaniac” in an opinion piece.
Teshome accused Eritrea of attempting to rekindle conflict in northern Ethiopia, a sentiment that has sparked further diplomatic disputes.
Adding to the tension, a UK-based human rights group reported that Eritrea had initiated a “nationwide military mobilisation.” This move, which allegedly includes conscripting citizens under 60 for military re-training, has raised eyebrows globally.
While Eritrea’s authoritarian government has not confirmed these reports, it has faced international scrutiny for its role in the Tigray conflict, where it supported Ethiopia’s military efforts. The United Nations and human rights organizations have accused Eritrean forces of war crimes, though Eritrea has strongly denied these claims.