Ethiopia warns against potential invasion as regional tensions rise
By Mwangi Maina |
He warned, "those who are afar and nearby" should understand that "we usually embarrass and repel those who dare try to invade us."
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has issued a stark warning to any nation considering an invasion of Ethiopia, urging them to "think 10 times" before attempting an attack, as it would be met with strong resistance.
While Abiy did not target any specific country in his comments, his warning comes amid escalating tensions with neighbouring Somalia and Egypt.
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Earlier this year, Ethiopia signed a maritime agreement with the breakaway region of Somaliland, which Somalia condemned as an act of "aggression."
In response, Somalia has strengthened its military ties with Egypt.
Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia over 30 years ago, is still regarded by Mogadishu as part of its territory.
Meanwhile, Egypt has been in a prolonged dispute with Ethiopia over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) on the Nile River, which Egypt fears will threaten its water supply.
Reports suggest that Egypt is planning to send troops to Somalia following the signing of a military pact between the two nations last month.
During a televised address on Ethiopia's Sovereignty Day, Abiy emphasised that Ethiopia is not seeking conflict.
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However, he warned, "those who are afar and nearby" should understand that "we usually embarrass and repel those who dare try to invade us."
He further 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."
Tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia have risen over Ethiopia's decision to grant Somaliland access to a port.
Additionally, Somaliland has suggested that it might lease part of its coast to Ethiopia's navy in exchange for Ethiopia recognizing it as an independent state.
The regional situation became more strained last month after two Egyptian C-130 military planes arrived in Somalia's capital, symbolising the strengthening of Egypt-Somalia ties.
Egypt reportedly plans to send up to 5,000 soldiers to join a new African Union (AU) force in Somalia by the end of the year, with another 5,000 soldiers to be deployed separately.
The AU force has been present in Somalia since 2007 to support the government in its fight against Al-Shabab, a jihadist group.
Ethiopian troops are part of this force, but Somalia has announced that they will have to withdraw next year.
Egypt has accused Ethiopia of jeopardising its water security by constructing the GERD in northern Ethiopia, where 85 per cent of the Nile's waters originate.
The GERD, Africa's largest hydroelectric project, is seen by Ethiopia as crucial for its energy needs.
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