In response to escalating tensions with Ethiopia, Eritrea has asked the UN Security Council to implement deterrent measures against Ethiopia. In this context, Ethiopia's Foreign Minister, Gedion Timotheos, cited Article 51 of the UN Charter, stating that his country has exercised its right to self-defense against Eritrea's accusations.
Mutual Accusations Between Ethiopia and Eritrea
Ethiopia has accused Eritrea of deploying infantry and mechanized units and supporting rebel groups. In response, Eritrea's Foreign Minister, Osman Saleh, has denied these accusations and called for a strong condemnation of Ethiopia for declaring war against Eritrea. Saleh wrote in a letter to the UN Security Council: "Eritrea asks the Security Council to strongly condemn Ethiopia's unacceptable declaration of war and to take necessary measures for deterrence."
Consequences of War and Humanitarian Crisis
Eritrea's Foreign Minister also warned that Ethiopia's actions could lead to widespread devastation for the people of both countries and destabilize the region. Since the onset of the conflict, Ethiopian forces have succeeded in pushing back the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) fighters and controlling large areas of the region, including its capital, Mekelle.
This conflict, which has violated the 2022 peace agreement, only deepens the growing rifts between Ethiopia and Eritrea. The two countries were allies in bloody border wars that occurred between 2020 and 2022, having united against the Tigray rebels.
These developments come as Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has reiterated his country's need for access to the Red Sea. He repeated this request on Monday, which Eritrea views as a direct threat to its sovereignty.
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