Ethiopia’s decision to close its embassy in Asmara and expel 10 Eritrean diplomats has triggered an immediate diplomatic break from Eritrea, deepening tensions amid a renewed surge of fighting in northern Ethiopia.
The Ethiopian government cited activities that threaten national security as the reason for the expulsions, a claim that Eritrea denies and calls an “astounding” provocation. Asmara’s foreign ministry said it would sever all diplomatic ties with Addis and warned of “negative corollaries” from the action.
The diplomatic flare came hours after powerful explosions were heard in Addis Ababa, near the nation's intelligence headquarters, and after reports of drone strikes in the capital. Officials have not confirmed the cause of the blasts and have yet to report casualties.
The conflict in the north involves federal forces clashing with the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) and its allies, a confrontation that has escalated into the deadliest fighting since the 2022 peace deal ended the Tigray war. Government forces claim gains in southern Tigray and are pushing toward the regional capital of Mekelle; meanwhile, TPLF troops continue operating in Afar, along the critical corridor to Djibouti.
Both sides blame the other for initiating the current hostilities, with the TPLF saying it is defending against a federal assault and drone attacks, while Addis claims TPLF fighters seized federally controlled airfields.
Humanitarian organisations report that the improved security situation has severely disrupted aid delivery in the north. The United Nations has urged all parties to ensure safe, unhindered access for relief efforts.
