Ethiopia questions Sudan's role in Tigray conflict near border

Port Sudan, a strategic Red Sea gateway, remains central to tensions between Sudan and Ethiopia over border and regional conflicts.

Ethiopia is raising concern over Sudan’s alleged support for Tigray forces near their shared border.

Ethiopian officials say such backing could affect regional stability.

Ethiopian Intelligence Director Redwan Hussein met with Sudan’s Sovereignty Council Chairman Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the Director of the General Intelligence Service in Port Sudan to discuss the matter.

Ethiopia criticised reports that the Sudanese military provides logistical support to Tigrayan fighters near the border. Addis Ababa fears these fighters could enter Ethiopian territory.

Officials also opposed Sudan’s reported policy of granting citizenship to members of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) during Sudan’s civil conflict.

Sudanese journalist Ammar Saeed described the situation as part of a regional power struggle.

He noted, “Port Sudan’s support for Tigray fighters changes regional alliances. Ethiopia sees this as a threat because relations with the TPLF remain fragile despite peace agreements.”

Saeed added that Ethiopia has avoided military action against Sudan and used its influence in the African Peace and Security Council (APSC) to block Sudan’s efforts to lift its African Union (AU) suspension.

According to reports, tensions began after the Tigray civil war started in 2020. Sudan reportedly increased its military presence in the Al-Fashaga region bordering Ethiopia’s Tigray and Amhara regions. Sudan claims the land under a 1902 treaty.

 Ethiopian farmers live there with support from Addis Ababa.

Reports say Sudan’s Sovereignty Council granted citizenship and residency to TPLF fighters to secure their participation in Sudan’s civil war against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Tigrayan fighters have reportedly been deployed in areas including Khartoum, Darfur and Kordofan.