Addis Ababa/Asmara – The United States and the European Union have warned that Eritrea has once again invaded Ethiopia’s conflict-torn Tigray province. The struggle in Tigray has been going on for more than the last eight months. In June, a local armed group in Tigray managed to drive the Ethiopian army out of the capital, Mekele. Ethiopia has since declared a ceasefire and announced the withdrawal of foreign troops. However, the re-entry of Eritrean troops indicates a new outbreak of conflict in Tigray soon.
Last year, in November, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abi Ahmed attacked Tigray citing rebellion against the government. He also enlisted the help of neighbouring Eritrea. After months of struggle, Prime Minister Ahmed claimed control of Tigray province. However, his claim has proved to be a fallacy in the last few months.
Local rebel groups in Tigray have seized key cities in the province, including the capital, Mekele. Hundreds of Ethiopian soldiers have been taken prisoner of war. At the same time, Eritrean troops have also been pushed out of the Tigray province. Insurgent groups have refused a ceasefire and threaten to continue fighting until complete control of the area is assumed. Some of the rebels have also infiltrated the neighbouring province of Amhara and claimed to have captured some parts. Groups from Amhara are preparing to retaliate.
Against this backdrop, the re-entry of Eritrean troops into other parts of Ethiopia, including Tigray, is noteworthy. A few days ago, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abi Ahmed visited Turkey and Eritrea. Sources claimed that military cooperation agreements were reached in these two visits. It is also said that the Ethiopian army and the infiltrated units of Eritrea will simultaneously target the Tigray groups from both fronts.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has raised the issue and expressed grave concern over the Eritrean military’s actions. The United States has also announced sanctions against Eritrea’s military chief and other military officials. A report prepared by the European Union on Tigray mentions the movements of the Eritrean army. The report warns that the Eritrean military entered two cities in Tigray with tanks and armed vehicles. Analysts claim that this is a sign of renewed conflict in Tigray province of Ethiopia.
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