EthiopiaEthiopia, Eritrea Cut Ties
Diplomatic relations severed as fighting escalates in northern Ethiopia, with over 50 people killed. The African Union has denied blaming Egypt for the crisis.
Global Newsflix 2 min read
Ethiopia and Eritrea have severed diplomatic relations, with Ethiopia accusing Eritrea of supporting a new rebel alliance. Eritrea has denied the allegation.
The Ethiopian government announced it was closing its embassy in Asmara and ordered 10 Eritrean diplomats to leave the country within 48 hours, citing national security concerns.
Eritrea responded by cutting diplomatic relations, saying Ethiopia's decision had left it with no choice but to take reciprocal action. The Eritrean foreign ministry warned of 'negative corollaries' from the decision.
The diplomatic confrontation came hours after powerful explosions were heard overnight in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, including near the military headquarters.
A pro-government militia says it has seized the town of Milazat, which is just 20km south-east of Mekelle, the capital of Tigray, where the main anti-government group is based.
The African Union Commission said it had not intended to blame Egypt or any neighboring country for developments inside Ethiopia after Cairo objected to an earlier statement by the body on regional tensions.
The commission said its appeal for restraint was aimed at preventing misunderstanding, escalation or a widening of tensions that could threaten regional stability.
Ethiopia has also expelled an Egyptian diplomat, giving him 48 hours to leave the country. Egypt responded by ordering an Ethiopian embassy official to leave within the same period.
Key facts
- Over 50 people have been killed in fighting in northern Ethiopia
- Ethiopia and Eritrea have severed diplomatic relations
- The African Union has denied blaming Egypt for the crisis
- Ethiopia has expelled an Egyptian diplomat
Three perspectives
Neutral
The situation in northern Ethiopia remains volatile, with fighting between federal forces and the Tigray People's Liberation Front. The African Union's denial of blaming Egypt may help to ease tensions. The expulsion of diplomats by Ethiopia and Egypt may further complicate the situation.
Positive
The African Union's appeal for restraint may help to prevent further escalation of the conflict. The organization's commitment to promoting peace and stability in the region is a constructive step.
Negative
The severing of diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea may lead to further instability in the region. The expulsion of diplomats by Ethiopia and Egypt may damage relations between the two countries.
Your week in news, every Wednesday
The biggest stories of the week for your edition, in your inbox every Wednesday morning, your time. Free, and you can unsubscribe at any time.