Collected photoADDIS ABABA, Feb 8, 2026 (BSS/AFP) - A bitter war of words has escalatedfurther after Ethiopia ordered neighbouring Eritrea to "immediately withdrawits troops" from Ethiopian territory, with the pair seemingly inching towardsa new conflict. He demanded that Asmara "withdraw its troops from Ethiopian territory andcease all forms of collaboration with rebel groups". Eritrea, one of the world's most closed countries, gained independence in1993 after decades of armed struggle against Ethiopia. Ethiopian authorities say Eritrea is "actively preparing for war" and fundingarmed groups fighting federal forces. Eritrea meanwhile accuses Ethiopia of seeking to seize its port at Assab aspart of the landlocked country's efforts to gain sea access.

Source: Ethiopian News February 08, 2026 14:33 UTC