Eritrea has withdrawn from East African regional bloc Igad, accusing the organization of becoming a tool against countries like itself.
In a statement on Friday, Eritrea's foreign ministry said Igad had strayed from its founding principles and failed to contribute to regional stability.
The withdrawal comes amid a fierce war of words between Eritrea and neighboring Ethiopia, leading to fears of renewed armed conflict.
In response to Eritrea's statement, Igad said the country had not made any tangible proposals or engaged with reforms.
Igad was established to promote regional stability and food security in East Africa, including Ethiopia, Kenya, Sudan, South Sudan, Uganda, and Djibouti.
The government in Eritrea's capital, Asmara, has long accused Igad of siding with Ethiopia in regional disputes.
Eritrea previously left the bloc in 2007, during its border dispute with Ethiopia. It only rejoined in 2023.
In its declaration, Eritrea stated, Eritrea finds itself compelled to withdraw its membership from an organization that has forfeited its legal mandate and authority; offering no discernible strategic benefit to all its constituencies. The response from Igad highlighted Eritrea's lack of participation in meetings since its return.
The existing tensions between Eritrea and Ethiopia stem from long-standing disputes and recent demands from Ethiopia's Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed, for access to the Red Sea, further complicating the relationship.
