Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed issued a stern warning to Eritrea on Monday, stating that the neighboring country faces severe consequences if it continues to support the rebels in Ethiopia’s northern Tigray state. According to Africanews, the prime minister delivered a speech in the Tigrinya language, a move he had largely avoided during the weeks of prior conflict in the region. He argued that Eritrea’s role as a base for Ethiopia’s enemies, rather than a partner in development, is becoming a strategic disadvantage.
The diplomatic friction follows a recent offensive by the Tigray People's Liberation Front, which had controlled the northern state for decades. Africanews reported that the rebels launched an attack against the federal government last month but were forced to retreat after losing control of the state. The fighting had raised fears of a broader regional war, as Eritrea deployed thousands of troops in Ethiopian territory to support the TPLF. However, the rebels were eventually driven back following intense drone attacks from the federal forces.
In response to the TPLF's retreat, a new federally appointed administration was established in Tigray on Friday. The new mayor of Mekelle, the state capital, Shishay Amare, told AFP that the administration aims to hold elections within six months to ensure peace and stability. Abiy Ahmed noted that the TPLF, which once ruled all of Ethiopia until he took power in 2018, is now facing the end of its existence. He emphasized that development would continue across Tigray until a regular administration is established through a formal electoral process.
The tension between the two nations is rooted in their complex history. Africanews noted that Eritrea gained independence from Ethiopia in 1993 and now fears that a landlocked Ethiopia might invade to secure access to the Red Sea. Abiy Ahmed contrasted the vibrancy of Eritrean cities when they were part of Ethiopia with their current state, describing them as ghost towns. He concluded that good neighborly relations and partnership remain the only viable path forward for both nations.