Feb 8, (V7N) - Tensions between Ethiopia and Eritrea have risen further after Addis Ababa called on its neighbour to withdraw troops from what it described as Ethiopian territory, amid renewed diplomatic exchanges that underline the fragility of relations between the two Horn of Africa states.

In a letter dated Saturday, Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos urged Eritrea to “immediately withdraw its forces” and to halt what Ethiopia alleges is cooperation with armed groups operating inside the country. He said recent developments suggested a trend toward escalation, though he emphasized that Ethiopia remains open to a diplomatic resolution.

According to the Ethiopian side, reported military movements and joint activities along the northwestern border are viewed as serious violations of sovereignty. However, Timothewos noted that the “cycle of mistrust and confrontation” could still be addressed through dialogue, provided there is respect for territorial integrity and a constructive response from Asmara.

Eritrean authorities did not immediately comment on the Ethiopian claims.

Relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea have historically been complex and often tense. Eritrea gained independence in 1993 following a prolonged armed struggle, but the two countries later fought a deadly border war from 1998 to 2000. Although Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed pursued rapprochement with Eritrea after coming to power—an effort that earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2019—ties have again become strained in recent years.

Both governments cooperated during the 2020–2022 conflict in Ethiopia’s Tigray region, but differences emerged over the subsequent peace process. Eritrea was not a signatory to the Pretoria Agreement, which formally ended the war but has not fully resolved underlying regional tensions.

Ethiopian officials have expressed concern over Eritrea’s regional activities, while Eritrea has accused Ethiopia of harbouring ambitions to secure access to the Red Sea, including claims related to the port of Assab—an allegation Addis Ababa has not formally acknowledged.

Regional observers say the latest exchange highlights the need for sustained diplomatic engagement to prevent further instability in an already fragile region.

END/WD/RH/