Eritrea accuses Ethiopia of fabricating report its troops had crossed the border

Eritrea has denied accusations from Ethiopia that its troops crossed the border and engaged in joint military maneuvers with Ethiopian rebels. Ethiopia's foreign minister sent a letter demanding Eritrea withdraw its soldiers, citing "outright aggression" and accusing Eritrea of supplying weapons to rebels. Eritrea responded by calling the accusations "false" and part of a hostile campaign against them. Tensions between the two countries, which fought a border war from 1998-2000, have been rising, particularly over Ethiopia's desire for access to the sea. Ethiopia's foreign minister suggested talks could begin, including on the issue of port access, if Eritrean troops withdraw. Eritrea claims it has no desire to escalate the situation.

Ethiopia's Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos accused Eritrea of military aggression and supporting armed groups within Ethiopia in a letter dated February 7, 2026. The accusation follows growing tensions between the two nations after Eritrea was not party to the 2022 agreement that ended the Tigray conflict. Ethiopia alleges that Eritrean forces have occupied Ethiopian territory along their shared border for an extended period and are providing material support to rebel groups. Timothewos demanded Eritrea withdraw its troops and cease collaboration with rebel groups, while also stating Ethiopia remains open to dialogue if Eritrea respects its territorial integrity. He expressed willingness to negotiate on matters of mutual interest, including maritime affairs and access to the Red Sea through the Eritrean port of Assab.