Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed issued a stern warning Sunday, vowing to “humiliate” any nation that threatens Ethiopia’s sovereignty. The statement comes as tensions rise in the Horn of Africa.
The dispute between Ethiopia and neighboring Somalia centers on a maritime deal with Somaliland, which Somalia claims undermines its territorial integrity.
Additionally, relations with Egypt remain tense over Ethiopia’s Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) on the Blue Nile.
Speaking at a Sovereignty Day ceremony in Addis Ababa, Abiy emphasized that Ethiopia would not compromise on its dignity or sovereignty. His remarks were reported by the Ethiopian News Agency.
Last month, Ethiopia accused unnamed actors of trying to destabilize the region following Egypt’s military cooperation pact with Somalia. Egypt has offered to deploy troops under a new African Union-led mission, further straining ties.
Somalia opposes Ethiopia’s deal with Somaliland, which grants Ethiopia access to the sea and a naval base, in exchange for potential recognition of Somaliland’s independence.
Efforts mediated by Turkey to resolve the conflict have made little progress. Meanwhile, Ethiopia and Egypt remain at odds over the dam project, with Egypt fearing for its water security.
