- Addis Ababa Calls for Respect for Its Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity, Reaffirms Commitment to Peaceful Resolution While Reserving the Right to Self-Defence Under International Law
ISLAMABAD: The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia has called on the international community to unequivocally condemn what it describes as an unprovoked act of aggression by Eritrea, alleging that Eritrean forces have crossed into Ethiopian territory and established military positions in several areas of northern Ethiopia.
According to the Ethiopian government, Eritrean troops have entered areas including Rama, Sheraro and Badme, as well as locations along the Adigrat–Zalambessa corridor, reportedly extending to Adigrat, a major urban centre in northern Ethiopia.
Ethiopia maintains that the alleged deployment constitutes a serious violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as a breach of the fundamental principles of the United Nations Charter. Addis Ababa has further characterized the reported military presence as unlawful interference in its internal affairs.
Ethiopia Calls for International Accountability
The Ethiopian government has urged the international community to take a clear and principled position in defence of national sovereignty, territorial integrity and the principles of international law. It argues that Ethiopia, as the country reporting the alleged incursion, should not be placed on an equal footing with the party it accuses of violating its territory.
Reaffirming its position under international law, Ethiopia has stated that it retains the inherent right to defend its territory and protect its citizens against acts of aggression, in accordance with the United Nations Charter.
At the same time, Addis Ababa says it has exercised maximum restraint and consistently favoured peaceful means of resolving disputes. The government has emphasized that its preference for dialogue and peaceful settlement should not be interpreted as a willingness to compromise the country’s sovereignty or the security of its people.
Demand for Immediate and Unconditional Withdrawal
Ethiopia has demanded the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of all Eritrean forces from Ethiopian territory, calling for respect for internationally recognized principles governing relations between sovereign states.
The Ethiopian government has reiterated that safeguarding its territorial integrity and protecting its population remain fundamental responsibilities, while maintaining that disputes should be addressed through peaceful and lawful mechanisms.
The situation underscores the importance of restraint, diplomatic engagement and respect for international law to prevent further escalation and preserve regional stability in the Horn of Africa.
The allegations and positions outlined in this report reflect the Ethiopian government’s stated position. Independent verification of the reported troop movements was not provided in the supplied statement.
BY: The Times Union
