Sounding the Drums of War
Lately, the air-bands in Ethiopia has been filled with ominous declarations:
“War is inevitable… Without intervention, a devastating conflict could soon erupt, reshaping the map of East Africa… The international community and powerful nations must act swiftly to prevent it.”
As always, Eritrea’s name is dragged into the rising drumbeats of war, accompanied by blatant falsehoods:
“The Eritrean army has occupied Tigrayan land… Eritrea might launch a war to derail the Pretoria Agreement… A faction of the TPLF is siding with Eritrea… Eritrea is backing FANO… After Eritrea, Egypt and Saudi Arabia will follow suit…”
The accusations are endless. But here are the facts:
- The people of Eritrea, blessed with vast land, sea, and islands, have never sought what is not theirs. Throughout history, Eritrea has never invaded another nation but has been invaded itself. As President Isaias Afwerki has repeatedly stated: “We do not want what is not ours, and we will not give away what is ours.” Eritrea does not occupy any territory beyond the internationally recognized borders demarcated by the Boundary Commission.
- Eritrea has no interest in interfering in the internal affairs of neighboring countries, nor does it support one faction over another. Agreements like the Pretoria Agreement are binding on those directly involved, not Eritrea. A Sudanese general once remarked, “Eritrea does not take sides—it always stands for the truth.” Indeed, Eritrea’s aspirations are rooted in peace and stability for the region.
- From Eritrea’s perspective, any conflict in the region is a shared concern for all. Eritrea firmly believes that solutions should come through regional cooperation, with local actors leading the way rather than external interference. Guided by this principle, the Eritrean government has consistently engaged in constructive diplomacy to foster brotherhood, equality, and economic partnership among neighboring nations. Its outreach to countries across the region has always been centered on stability and cooperation.
“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that.”Prayers for war and veiled hatred will not bring peace. Instead of fueling fear, suspicion, and conflict, true commitment and courage are required to foster peace and cooperation. As Aristotle wisely stated, “The greatest victory is to build peace rather than to win a war.”
