Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has issued a strong warning to potential aggressors, stating that anyone planning to invade his country should “think 10 times” before doing so. This bold statement comes at a time of escalating tensions with neighboring Somalia and Egypt.
The root of the conflict lies in Ethiopia’s recent maritime pact with the self-declared republic of Somaliland, which Somalia views as an act of aggression against its territorial integrity. In response, Somalia has strengthened its military ties with Egypt, a move that further complicates the regional dynamics.
This tension adds to the ongoing dispute between Ethiopia and Egypt over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) on the Nile. Egypt, concerned about its water supply, has reportedly planned to send troops to Somalia following a military pact between the two nations.
Despite the rising tensions, Prime Minister Abiy emphasized that Ethiopia has no intention of creating conflict. However, he asserted the nation’s readiness to defend itself, stating that Ethiopia has a history of repelling invaders.
The situation is further complicated by Somalia’s demand for Ethiopian troops to withdraw from the African Union force in the country next year. Meanwhile, Egypt accuses Ethiopia of threatening its water supply with the construction of the GERD.
As regional alliances shift and tensions simmer, the international community watches closely, hoping for a peaceful resolution to these complex geopolitical challenges in the Horn of Africa.