Ethiopia warns Eritrea it will defend itself after troops cross border


In a sharp escalation of tensions in northern Ethiopia, the government has accused Eritrea of an "all‑out invasion" after troops were reported crossing the border into Tigray, threatening retaliation and citing a UN letter demanding support.



Ethiopian forces in Tigray
Ethiopian forces take control of Mekelle, the main city of Tigray, after a week of fighting.


Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos’ letter to the UN Security Council described the incursion as a "blatant act of aggression" that left Ethiopia with no choice but to defend itself. Eritrea’s Information Minister, Yemane Gebremeskel, fired back, calling the accusations a prelude to "unprovoked war of aggression" from neighbouring Ethiopia.


The conflict traces back to the 2020 cease‑fire that ended a two‑year civil war, after which the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) clashed with the central government. Both sides blame each other for violating the peace deal; Ethiopia claims Eritrea is backing the TPLF, a charge the Red Sea nation rejects.


Drone strikes in the town of Adigrat last week reportedly struck Eritrean troops and ammunition, raising fears of a wider regional war. Witnesses say several Eritrean lorries were destroyed and the troops began to withdraw northward.


Eritrea and Ethiopia have severed diplomatic ties after disputes over an Eritrean Red Sea port, adding to the diplomatic standoff. The clash comes as the TPLF and other rebel groups have formed a new armed alliance, underscoring the fragile peace in the region.


Ethiopia’s letter to the UN urged "understanding, support and solidarity," while Eritrea accused Ethiopia of plotting regime change by supporting opposition mercenaries.


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