Ethiopia and Eritrea have accused each other of starting a war of aggression following the severance of diplomatic ties between the two neighboring countries. Both nations are trading blame for confrontations in Tigray, leading to heightened tensions and fears of a wider conflict.
In a letter to the United Nations Security Council, the Ethiopian government stated it had no option but to defend itself against what it called an all-out invasion by Eritrean forces. Ethiopian officials estimate that up to 8,000 Eritrean soldiers are present in Tigray supporting rebels who launched attacks against federal forces last month.
Eritrea has denied backing the TPLF despite Ethiopia's allegations of collusion, further straining their volatile relationship. While international calls for restraint continue, there are concerns that the involvement of respective allies could potentially catapult the conflict into a regional war.