Summary
Ethiopian police have claimed they seized ammunition sent by Eritrea to a rebel group in Ethiopia, raising concerns about potential conflict between the two countries. Eritrea denied the accusation and accused Ethiopia of creating reasons to start a war. Tensions have been high due to Ethiopia's request for sea access which Eritrea has rejected.
Key Facts
- Ethiopian police reported they found over 56,000 rounds of ammunition meant for rebels, claiming it came from Eritrea.
- The ammunition was allegedly intended for the Fano rebels in the Amhara region.
- Eritrea's government denied sending the ammunition and accused Ethiopia of provoking conflict.
- Ethiopia and Eritrea have a history of conflict, including a war over border disputes in which more than 100,000 people died.
- Relations slightly improved in 2018 with a peace declaration, but tensions have since risen.
- Ethiopia's Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has stated his country needs access to the sea, which Eritrea opposes.
- Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki accused Ethiopia of planning aggression but stated Eritrea does not seek war.
- Ethiopia has been dealing with a Fano rebel insurgency, controlling parts of the northern Amhara region.
