Addis Ababa – Ethiopia has issued one of its strongest public statements in recent years against Eritrea, accusing Asmara of supporting armed groups operating inside Ethiopia and occupying multiple local administrative areas in the country’s north.
The remarks were delivered on 13 November 2025 by Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos (PhD) during the Foreign Policy Forum co-organized by Horn Review and Addis Ababa University.
“Eritrea is controlling several Ethiopian administrative units”
Foreign Minister Gedion stated that Eritrean troops are currently in control of “several local administration units in northern Ethiopia”, insisting that these territories fall “squarely within Ethiopian sovereign territory.”
He emphasized that Ethiopia has exercised significant patience, but cautioned that military restraint in the face of continued provocations is “not indefinite or unconditional.”
Accusations of supporting armed groups
The minister also accused Eritrea of offering logistical, political, and operational support to armed groups operating inside Ethiopia.
He said these activities constitute a direct violation of Ethiopia’s sovereignty and security, warning that such actions threaten regional stability.
Assab Port: Ethiopia’s Strategic Priority
Responding to a question from participants, Gedion reaffirmed that secure access to Assab Port remains Ethiopia’s foremost national priority.
He underscored that Ethiopia’s interest is not only rooted in history or legal arguments, but also in its decades-long financial, infrastructural, and strategic investments, both before and after Eritrea’s independence.
Historical and contemporary roots of tension
During his remarks, the minister offered a detailed analysis of the complex historical, political, and security dynamics underpinning current Ethio-Eritrean tensions.
He argued that Ethiopia seeks a stable, lawful, and mutually respectful relationship with Eritrea—but warned that such a relationship cannot exist while Eritrea maintains troops inside Ethiopian territory and supports anti-government armed actors.
Outlook
The Foreign Minister’s sharp tone marks a significant escalation in Ethiopia’s diplomatic posture toward Eritrea, signaling that Addis Ababa may consider new political or security measures should tensions continue.
HornCurrent will continue monitoring developments.
