Ethiopia Warns Against Invasion Amid Regional Tensions
-
Loading... - Eric Kwame
- 13 Sep 2024
- 43 Views
- 0 Like
- 0 Comment
Ethiopia's Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed, has issued a stern warning to any country planning to invade Ethiopia, stating that they should "think 10 times" before doing so. This warning comes at a time of rising tensions with neighboring Somalia and Egypt.
In a televised address marking Ethiopia's Sovereignty Day, Mr. Abiy emphasized that Ethiopia has no intention of creating conflict, but will defend itself against any invasion. He stated, "Those who are afar and nearby should know that we usually embarrass and repel those who dare try to invade us."
The tensions in the region have been escalating due to several factors, including a maritime pact signed between Ethiopia and the self-declared republic of Somaliland in January. Somalia has described this pact as an act of "aggression" and has responded by forging closer military ties with Egypt.
Egypt has been involved in a long-running dispute with Ethiopia over the construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (Gerd) on a tributary of the River Nile. Egypt has accused Ethiopia of threatening its supply of water from the Nile, while Ethiopia sees the dam as vital to meeting its energy needs.
The situation has become more complex with the signing of a military pact between Somalia and Egypt last month, which reportedly includes plans for Egypt to send troops to Somalia. This has raised concerns about the potential for further escalation in the region.
In response to these developments, Mr. Abiy has reiterated Ethiopia's commitment to defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity. He stated, "Anyone intending to invade Ethiopia should think not just once but 10 times because one great thing we Ethiopians know is [how] to defend ourselves."
The situation remains volatile, with multiple countries involved in the dispute and a range of complex issues at play. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the tensions will be resolved and what the implications will be for the region.
