Egypt, Somalia, and Eritrea Forge Alliance Amidst Ethiopia Tensions

ASMARA, Eritrea - In a significant diplomatic move, Egypt, Somalia, and Eritrea have solidified their alliance, escalating regional tensions primarily directed against Ethiopia. This development was marked by a summit in Asmara where Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, alongside Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, met with Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki to discuss strategic collaboration.

The alliance's formation comes in the wake of Ethiopia's controversial deal with Somaliland, aiming to secure a Red Sea coastline, which has ignited fears of regional destabilization. Egypt, already at odds with Ethiopia over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), views this move as an expansion of Ethiopian influence detrimental to regional stability and its national interests.

Somalia, feeling its sovereignty threatened by Ethiopia's recognition of Somaliland, has found common cause with Egypt, leading to increased military cooperation. Notably, Egypt has begun deploying military equipment and personnel to Somalia, not only to bolster its military but also as a strategic message to Ethiopia.

Eritrea, traditionally more isolated, has positioned itself as a mediator and host for these discussions, underscoring a shift in its diplomatic engagement. The Eritrean President, known for his reserved foreign policy, sees this alliance as a means to counterbalance Ethiopia's regional maneuvers.

The discussions in Asmara are expected to culminate in a formal agreement or declaration, potentially outlining a collective security framework or economic sanctions against Ethiopia. Such an alliance could reshape the geopolitical dynamics of the Horn of Africa, influencing everything from trade routes to military alliances.

This regional alignment has raised concerns about the possibility of proxy conflicts or increased militarization, especially given the historical and ongoing disputes over water rights and territorial integrity. Analysts caution that while direct military confrontation seems unlikely due to broader geopolitical implications, the region could see an increase in diplomatic skirmishes and economic pressure tactics.

The summit's outcomes will be closely watched not just by neighboring states but by global powers with interests in the stability of the Red Sea and broader African politics. The alliance's next steps could either pave the way for negotiated peace or further entrench regional rivalries.

GAROWE ONLINE