Addis Ababa: Relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea have entered a new period of diplomatic tension after Ethiopia ordered the closure of its embassy in Eritrea and declared several Eritrean diplomats persona non grata.

The decision was followed by Eritrea severing diplomatic relations with Ethiopia, sharply escalating an already sensitive relationship between the neighbouring countries.

The dispute comes after explosions were reported in Addis Ababa, raising concerns about the possibility of renewed instability in northern Ethiopia. The latest diplomatic measures have added to fears that tensions between the two countries could deteriorate further.

Ethiopia and Eritrea share a long and complicated political history. Eritrea gained independence from Ethiopia in 1993 after a prolonged conflict, but relations between the two countries remained difficult for years.

A major change came with the 2018 peace agreement, which ended a long period of open hostility and led to improved diplomatic relations. The latest confrontation has therefore raised concerns about the durability of the rapprochement achieved in recent years.

The situation is particularly sensitive because both countries are located in the Horn of Africa, a region already facing political instability, armed conflicts and humanitarian challenges.

Ethiopia is also dealing with internal security issues in several parts of the country. Any deterioration in relations with Eritrea could add another layer of pressure to the government’s security and diplomatic agenda.

For Eritrea, the decision to sever diplomatic ties represents a significant escalation. The move could affect diplomatic communication, consular services and other forms of official cooperation between the two countries.

Regional governments and international organisations are likely to watch developments closely because instability between Ethiopia and Eritrea could have consequences beyond their shared border.

The diplomatic crisis also highlights the fragility of relations in the Horn of Africa, where political disputes can quickly become connected with security and regional power dynamics.

For now, the immediate priority for both sides will be preventing the diplomatic confrontation from developing into a wider security crisis. Maintaining communication channels and addressing the circumstances behind the latest dispute could become important steps toward reducing tensions.

The latest escalation has placed Ethiopia-Eritrea relations at a critical point. With diplomatic ties suspended and security concerns growing, the coming days could determine whether the dispute remains a diplomatic confrontation or develops into a broader regional crisis.