Drone Attack on Eritrean Troops Entering Tigray from Ethiopia

Ethiopian government forces launched drone strikes against Eritrean units that crossed from across the border into the Tigray region. This development has heightened concerns over a potential regional war between the two neighboring countries.

Border-Crossing Troops Targeted

Military vehicles carrying Eritrean soldiers who crossed into the Tigray region from Eritrea's southern border advanced as far as the town of Adigrat, 40 kilometers south of the border.

According to information provided by eyewitnesses, a militia commander, and the Acled conflict monitoring group, Eritrean troops were targeted by government drones on Wednesday evening and Thursday morning.

Regional War Concerns

The entry of Eritrean forces into Ethiopian territory has increased the risk of the renewed internal conflict in the country escalating into a full-scale regional war between the two neighboring nations.

It is stated that Eritrea made this move in response to the risk of Ethiopia invading it in order to gain access to the Red Sea.

Conflict Dynamics in Tigray

Over the past two weeks, the TPLF and six other armed groups in Ethiopia clashed with government forces in Tigray and the neighboring Amhara and Afar regions.

While the Ethiopian army carried out a counter-offensive, allied Tigray Peace Force militia seized control of the city of Mekelle on October 4.

Official Statements and Positions

Eritrean Information Minister Yemane Ghebremeskel stated that they were not in the business of denying baseless claims, without directly confirming or denying the presence of the troops.

The Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that they are ready to defend the country's sovereignty and called on regional actors for constructive dialogue.