Eritrea has withdrawn from the East African regional bloc Igad, accusing the organization of 'becoming a tool against' countries like itself.
In a statement on Friday, Eritrea's foreign ministry said Igad had strayed from its founding principles and failed to contribute to regional stability.
The withdrawal comes amid a fierce war of words between Eritrea and neighbouring Ethiopia, leading to fears of renewed armed conflict.
In response to Eritrea's statement, Igad (Intergovernmental Authority on Development) said the country had not made any 'tangible proposals' or engaged with reforms.
Igad was established to promote regional stability and food security in East Africa and includes Ethiopia, Kenya, Sudan, South Sudan, Uganda, and Djibouti.
The government in Eritrea's capital, Asmara, has long accused Igad of siding with Ethiopia in regional disputes.
Eritrea previously left the bloc in 2007 during its border dispute with Ethiopia and only rejoined in 2023.
Eritrea's foreign ministry stated, 'Eritrea finds itself compelled to withdraw its membership from an organisation that has forfeited its legal mandate and authority; offering no discernible strategic benefit to all its constituencies.'
The withdrawal comes as tensions increase between Eritrea and Ethiopia, with Abiy Ahmed, Ethiopia's Prime Minister, demanding access to the Red Sea through Eritrea, a request that has sparked a furious response from Asmara.
After decades of conflict, Eritrea seceded from Ethiopia in 1993, leaving Ethiopia landlocked. Abiy harshly questioned Eritrean independence in recent statements.
Eritrea claims that accusations of its interference in regional matters are a result of nearby countries aligning with Western powers to destabilize it. The country has faced sanctions and strained relationships due to these conflicts.
The future looks uncertain as Eritrea's exit from Igad signals increased isolation amid a tempestuous relationship with Ethiopia.
