Ankara:The European Union has raised concerns about escalating violence in Ethiopia and the increasing tensions with neighboring Eritrea, warning that it could lead to a broader conflict throughout the Horn of Africa.

According to Anadolu Agency, the EU, through a statement by its high representative on behalf of the bloc, emphasized the severe consequences that the continued escalation could have on regional peace and stability. The statement called for immediate de-escalation and urged involved parties to avoid actions or rhetoric that could exacerbate tensions.

The EU also appealed to the parties of the Permanent Cessation of Hostilities Agreement to fully implement it within the African Union framework. It stressed the importance of protecting civilians, ensuring unhindered humanitarian access, and adhering to international humanitarian law.

Furthermore, the EU reiterated the necessity of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states, urging external actors to refrain from interference. It called on these actors to leverage their influence to prevent further escalation and promote political solutions and diplomacy.

The EU's statement was issued amidst renewed fighting between Ethiopian federal forces and fighters affiliated with the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), with clashes reported in Tigray, Amhara, and Afar regions. Both the TPLF and federal officials have accused each other of reigniting hostilities.

Diplomatic tensions have also risen, with Eritrea severing ties with Ethiopia after the latter closed its embassy in Asmara and expelled 10 Eritrean diplomats. Ethiopia and Egypt have similarly expelled diplomats amid the growing dispute. Ethiopian military officials have accused Eritrea, Egypt, and Sudan of supporting the Tigrayan-led opposition alliance, though these countries have denied the allegations.

The African Union has cautioned against renewed fighting, warning that it could undermine the progress made under the November 2022 Pretoria agreement, which ended a two-year war between Ethiopia's federal government and the TPLF. The conflict had resulted in hundreds of thousands of deaths and displaced millions, with unresolved issues concerning territory, the return of displaced individuals, and disarmament.