Eritrean troops filmed mobilizing along Tigray borders

NAIROBI, Kenya - The conflict in the federal Republic of Ethiopia could take a little longer before a lasting solution is found, analysts argue, following the latest activities of Eritrean troops along the borders of the Tigray region, which is the epicenter of the 22-month conflict in the country.

Multiple sources confirmed sighting Eritrean soldiers mobilizing in the Western borders of Tigray, an indication that Ethiopia and Eritrea could be planning a major offensive in the Tigray region despite calls for a truce from members of the international community.

There have been calls by stakeholders to push Eritrea out of Ethiopia, with both the US and UK arguing that in coming months, the conflict might worsen should Asmara continue keeping soldiers in Tigray. The troops are said to be assisting in targeting innocent civilians.

According to eyewitnesses, heavily armed troops from Eritrea with tanks are amassing near the Tigray border, some crossing for incursion as the US calls Asmara to stop role in Ethiopia's internal conflict, which AU and other international partners are trying to mediate and find peace through dialogue.

Eritrean troops also entered the Afar region, near Berhale, east of Tigray, for an attempt to strike Mekelle, which has been under constant airstrikes by the Ethiopian air force since the restart of the conflict in August, targeting University, hospital, and kindergarten. Over 17 were killed.

Eritrea has remained mum over the allegations with Ethiopia persistently dismissing the reports, terming them "fabrications" of the "highest degree". But last year, the UN Special Rapporteur to Eritrea insisted that Asmara was sending troops to Eritrea.

Along with Eritrean troops, it was also confirmed that some Somali soldiers training in Eritrea were forced to cross over the border to fight in Tigray, particularly in the Axum area. Thousands of people have died since November 2020 when fighting erupted with millions of others getting displaced.

Isaias Afwerki, a long-time foe of Ethiopia has lately been working closely with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who has been fighting to instill stability in the country. Abiy, the Nobel Peace Prize winner of 2019, has struggled to contain setbacks in the conflict-hit Horn of Africa nation.

The African Union mission has been mandated by the Tigray People's Liberation Front and the Ethiopian government to meditate on the conflict even though the talks are yet to officially kick-off. Kenya has also expressed willingness to help solve the conflict.

GAROWE ONLINE