Eritrea exits regional bloc amid rising tensions with Ethiopia

Eritrea has announced its immediate withdrawal from the East African bloc IGAD (Intergovernmental Authority on Development), condemning the organization for deviating from its founding principles and acting as “a tool against” member states.

The decision, declared by Eritrea’s foreign ministry on Friday, follows escalating tensions with neighboring Ethiopia over Addis Ababa’s demands for Red Sea access. Eritrea rejoined IGAD in 2023 after a 16-year absence but has since boycotted all its activities.

In response, IGAD noted Eritrea’s lack of engagement and stated it had made no “tangible proposals” since returning.

The bloc, which includes Ethiopia, Kenya, and Djibouti, faces criticism for failing to ensure regional stability in the volatile Horn of Africa.

This move deepens a dangerous diplomatic rift between Eritrea and Ethiopia, two nations with a long history of deadly conflict, raising fresh concerns over regional security.