Clashes near Badme risk a wider Ethiopia-Eritrea conflict, Addis Standard's diplomatic sources warned, while the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED) found neither side controlled the town as of Nov. 13.
ACLED placed Ethiopian federal forces between Sheraro and Badme, and Eritrean forces near the town's perimeter. It also recorded Ethiopian artillery fire toward nearby areas. The Critical Threats Project said its Nov. 10 assessment could not determine which side of the border the reported fighting took place on.
Two diplomatic sources told Addis Standard that clashes had intensified over several days. One described Ethiopian drone strikes and Eritrean heavy artillery; the other warned that the exchanges risked a broader confrontation. Residents separately told the outlet about nighttime explosions, closed businesses and families leaving the area.
The border town became a focal point in the 1998-2000 Ethiopia-Eritrea war, which left tens of thousands dead. The broader dispute includes Ethiopia's allegation that Eritrea supports armed groups. Eritrea has rejected allegations of hostile acts, while its Ministry of Information has blamed Ethiopia's pursuit of Red Sea access for the crisis. EconoTimes previously reported on Abiy Ahmed's warning to Eritrea over alleged Tigray rebel support.
Anadolu Agency reported that Group of Seven (G7) foreign ministers called for restraint and diplomatic approaches after meeting in Paris on Nov. 9-10.
