Horn Africa News
ADDIS ABABA – Ethiopia has placed its armed forces on high alert amid reports that Egyptian troops may be preparing to move into Somalia under the African Union Mission, raising fears of heightened tensions between the two countries.
According to regional security sources, Addis Ababa has intensified surveillance and reinforced troop deployments along sensitive border areas after intelligence suggested Cairo was considering a military entry into strategic Somali towns near Ethiopia’s border. Ethiopian officials warned that any violation of the country’s sovereignty would trigger a strong response.
The latest developments come against the backdrop of a protracted dispute over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) on the Blue Nile. While Ethiopia maintains the dam is vital for its economic development and will not significantly affect downstream countries, Egypt argues it threatens its critical water security.
Diplomatic negotiations remain stalled, raising concerns that the standoff could spill over into a broader confrontation. Analysts caution that if Egyptian troops cross into territory perceived as threatening Ethiopia’s borders, the situation could escalate quickly.
Ethiopia is already contending with domestic security challenges in Tigray, Amhara, and Oromia, and any external military pressure would add to the strain. Meanwhile, Egypt has been consolidating regional alliances, including with Sudan, to strengthen its hand in the Nile dispute.
Although neither government has officially confirmed Egyptian troop movements toward Somalia’s Al-Awsom area, both militaries have recently expanded their presence in the region.
The African Union, headquartered in Addis Ababa, has urged restraint and renewed calls for dialogue to prevent tensions from spiraling into open conflict.
