Relations between the two Horn of Africa neighbours have hit a dangerous new low today, Thursday, 15 January 2026, as the Ethiopian government formally accused Eritrea of providing military hardware and sanctuary to insurgent groups operating in northern and central Ethiopia.
The allegation has triggered an intense “war of words,” with diplomats warning that the fragile peace established after the 2018 rapprochement is now on the brink of collapse.
In a strongly worded statement issued by the Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Addis Ababa claimed to have “incontrovertible evidence” of Eritrean interference.
Arming Insurgents: Ethiopia alleges that the Eritrean Defense Forces (EDF) have been supplying sophisticated small arms and communication equipment to “anti-peace elements” across the border.
Logistical Support: The statement further claimed that training camps have been established inside Eritrean territory to facilitate cross-border raids into Ethiopian territory.
Sovereignty Breach: Addis Ababa warned that it would take “all necessary measures” to protect its territorial integrity if the alleged support does not cease immediately.
The Eritrean Ministry of Information was quick to respond, dismissing the accusations as a “smokescreen” designed to distract from Ethiopia’s internal political challenges.
The Denial: Asmara characterized the claims as “outright lies and baseless fabrications” aimed at scapegoating Eritrea for Ethiopia’s domestic security lapses.
Accusations of Expansionism: Eritrea, in turn, accused the Ethiopian leadership of “belligerent rhetoric” and harboring expansionist ambitions, particularly regarding access to the Red Sea.
Diplomatic Standoff: The Eritrean government stated it would not be “intimidated by the desperate maneuvers” of the administration in Addis Ababa.
Geopolitical analysts suggest the current friction is deeply tied to Ethiopia’s recent diplomatic maneuvers to secure permanent access to the Red Sea.1
“This is no longer just about border disputes. We are seeing a competition for regional hegemony. Ethiopia’s drive for sea access has rattled Asmara, and the ‘rebel arming’ narrative is the first stage of a potential kinetic confrontation.” – East Africa Security Expert.
The African Union (AU) has called for “maximum restraint,” urging both nations to utilize existing diplomatic channels to resolve their grievances. Meanwhile, the United Nations has expressed concern over the potential for a renewed refugee crisis in the region if the rhetoric turns into active combat.
