Eritrea has cut all diplomatic ties with neighboring Ethiopia, following a move by Addis Ababa to close its embassy in Eritrea's capital, Asmara. The decision to sever ties was made after Ethiopia declared 10 Eritrean diplomats persona non grata on Thursday, February 10, 2026. This development has heightened tensions between the two countries, which have had a complex relationship in recent years.
The crisis began with overnight blasts heard in Addis Ababa, sparking fears of renewed conflict in northern Ethiopia. The blasts raised concerns about the potential spread of violence in the region. In response, Ethiopia ordered the closure of the Eritrean embassy and asked 10 Eritrean diplomats to leave the country. Eritrea's government saw this as a hostile move, prompting them to sever diplomatic ties with Ethiopia.
The relationship between Eritrea and Ethiopia has been strained in recent years. Despite a peace agreement signed in 2018, aimed at ending decades of conflict, tensions have persisted. The two nations have competing interests in the region, and their relationship has been marked by periods of relative calm punctuated by outbreaks of violence.
Eritrea's decision to cut ties with Ethiopia is likely to have significant implications for the region. The move could disrupt trade and communication between the two countries, affecting the lives of citizens and businesses that rely on these connections. Furthermore, the escalation of tensions between Eritrea and Ethiopia may draw in other regional players, potentially destabilizing the Horn of Africa.
The international community has been watching the developments in the region closely. The United States, the European Union, and other global powers have invested significant diplomatic efforts in promoting peace and stability in the Horn of Africa. Their efforts have led to some positive outcomes, including the 2018 peace agreement between Eritrea and Ethiopia.
However, the current crisis highlights the fragility of peace in the region. The blasts in Addis Ababa and the subsequent diplomatic fallout between Eritrea and Ethiopia demonstrate that underlying tensions and unresolved issues can quickly escalate into full-blown crises. The international community will likely be watching closely to see how the situation develops and whether diplomatic efforts can help to de-escalate tensions.
As the situation continues to unfold, residents of both countries are bracing for the potential consequences. Economists are warning of potential economic shocks, while citizens are stocking up on essential supplies. Governments in the region are urging restraint and calling for dialogue to resolve the crisis.
Key points
- Ethiopia declared 10 Eritrean diplomats persona non grata on Thursday, February 10, 2026.
- The decision to cut ties was made after Ethiopia ordered the closure of its embassy in Eritrea.
- The crisis has heightened tensions between the two countries, which have had a complex relationship in recent years.
