Horn of Africa, Relations between Eritrea and Ethiopia have sharply deteriorated in recent weeks, fueling fears of renewed conflict after years of fragile peace. Both governments are trading accusations and ramping up military activity near their shared border, particularly around Ethiopia’s Tigray region and adjacent areas.
Ethiopia has accused Eritrean forces of occupying parts of its territory and providing support to armed groups operating within Ethiopia allegations that Eritrea strongly denies, calling them fabricated and unfounded. Addis Ababa has formally demanded that Eritrea withdraw its troops from Ethiopian soil, but Asmara rejects the claims and says Ethiopia’s statements are designed to justify aggression.
The situation has worsened alongside a military buildup, with both sides reportedly moving troops and equipment near the Tigray border, raising concerns among regional diplomats and observers that the long‑standing peace could unravel.
The United Nations and international groups have urged both countries to de‑escalate and return to diplomatic channels, warning that a renewed conflict could have devastating humanitarian consequences in a region already affected by years of war and instability.
Civilians living in border areas say they are increasingly anxious as tensions rise, with uncertainty over security, travel disruption, and the fear of a return to open hostilities that once displaced millions and caused widespread suffering in the Horn of Africa.