Escalating Tension in the Horn of Africa: Egypt and Ethiopia in Indirect Confrontation

Escalating Tension in the Horn of Africa: Egypt and Ethiopia in Indirect Confrontation
Recent Egyptian moves in Somalia indicate a comprehensive strategy aimed at undermining growing Ethiopian influence in the region, and asserting Egypt's presence as an effective regional power capable
September 24, 2024, 12:20 am

التوترات بين مصر وإثيوبيا \ تعبيرية \ مصممة بالذكاء الاصطناعي \ ليفانت نيوز

In a development that strengthens Egypt's position in the Horn of Africa and sends a strong message to Ethiopia, a new Egyptian military aid ship arrived in the Somali capital, Mogadishu. This step comes within the framework of the joint defense agreement signed between the two countries last August, which aims to enhance Somalia's defense capabilities and address increasing security challenges in the region.

Somali Defense Minister Abdulkadir Nur warmly welcomed the Egyptian ship, praising Cairo's supportive stance towards his country. In a notable tweet, Nur warned against foreign interventions, saying: "Somalia has passed the stage of being dictated to... We know our interests, and we will choose between our allies and enemies.. Thank you Egypt," reflecting the depth of Egyptian-Somali relations and sending a clear message to Ethiopia regarding its attempts to interfere in Somali internal affairs.

In a related context, Somali sources revealed the arrival of a specialized Egyptian medical team in Mogadishu to perform surgeries and examine patients, confirming the comprehensiveness of Egyptian support for Somalia. These efforts come within the framework of a broad Egyptian strategy to enhance its influence in the region and confront concerning Ethiopian moves.

Experts in African affairs point out that Egyptian support for Somalia represents a strategic response to Ethiopia's attempts to expand its influence in the region, especially after signing an agreement with the breakaway Somaliland region to use a port in the region.

Dr. Mahmoud Abdel Aziz, an expert in Horn of Africa affairs, warned that "these Ethiopian moves pose a direct threat to Egyptian interests in the Red Sea and call for a firm response."

Meanwhile, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdel Aty, during his meeting with the US envoy to the Horn of Africa, emphasized Egypt's keenness to achieve stability in Somalia by supporting central state institutions and enhancing its sovereignty, indicating a comprehensive Egyptian vision for regional security based on respecting the sovereignty of states and the unity of their territories.

On the other hand, Ethiopian moves have raised great concern in the region, with the Somali Foreign Ministry strongly condemning Ethiopia's sending of unauthorized arms shipments to the Puntland region, considering it a violation of the country's sovereignty and a threat to regional security.

In light of these rapid developments, Egypt's role emerges as a responsible regional power seeking to achieve stability in the Horn of Africa and face increasing security challenges. The question remains: Will diplomatic efforts succeed in defusing tensions between Egypt and Ethiopia?

Levant-Agencies

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