Tensions Resurface: Eritrea Accused of Atrocities in Tigray Conflict

Ethiopia acknowledges Eritrean troops' involvement in mass killings during the Tigray war, accusing Eritrea of fueling renewed tensions. Despite a peace agreement in 2022, both nations continue to dispute over past atrocities and strategic interests, highlighting Ethiopia's desire for Red Sea access.

Ethiopia has, for the first time, admitted the involvement of Eritrean troops in the Tigray conflict, accusing them of mass killings. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed raised these allegations while addressing the parliament on Tuesday, stating that Eritrean forces committed atrocities alongside Ethiopian troops during the war.

The conflict, which resulted in an estimated 400,000 deaths, ended in 2022 with a peace agreement. Eritrean Information Minister Yemane Gebremeskel dismissed Ahmed's accusations as baseless, which he referred to as 'cheap and despicable lies.' The two nations have continued their exchange of accusations, each blaming the other for inciting conflict.

This ongoing strife, partly tied to Ethiopia's aspiration for access to the Red Sea, continues to fester as both countries prepare for potential escalations. Recent reports suggest the possibility of a new alliance between Eritrea and regional forces in Tigray, as tensions in the region appear to be reigniting.