Ethiopia Sends Letter to Eritrea, Demanding Withdrawal and Offering Dialogue. Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs sent a formal letter to Eritrea on February 7, 2026, demanding the immediate withdrawal of Eritrean forces from Ethiopian territory and accusing them of supporting armed groups along their shared border, according to official sources.
The letter, addressed to Eritrea’s foreign minister in Asmara, labels the actions of Eritrean forces as “outright aggression.”.
It also proposes dialogue and negotiations over access to the Red Sea port of Assab, emphasizing the importance of peace in the region. Ethiopia’s government has long expressed concerns over the presence of Eritrean forces on its territory, claiming that these actions undermine regional stability and threaten Ethiopian sovereignty.
The letter is the latest in a series of diplomatic efforts to resolve the ongoing border dispute.
There has been no direct dialogue between Ethiopia and Eritrea since the end of their two — year war in 2000.
The conflict, which resulted in tens of thousands of deaths, has left a lasting impact on the relationship between the two countries.
The United Nations Security Council has previously called for both countries to attend boundary commission meetings and abide by the commission’s requirements, according to UN documents.
Regional officials confirmed that Ethiopia’s letter carries a strong warning, while also offering a pathway towards peace.
The letter’s release has sparked a mix of concern and cautious optimism among observers. Eritrea has not yet publicly responded to the letter.
Historically, Asmara has rejected similar accusations, insisting on the right to act in self — defense and warning against Ethiopian expansionism.
The Horn of Africa is already strained by conflict in Sudan and instability in eastern Congo.
A renewed Ethiopia — Eritrea confrontation could disrupt trade corridors, unsettle investors, and undermine efforts at regional integration.
Ethiopia’s letter reflects a complex and delicate diplomatic situation. While it demands the withdrawal of Eritrean forces, it also offers a potential pathway towards dialogue and cooperation.
Further details are expected as the situation develops.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 3*
