Ethiopia has accused Eritrea of military aggression and of backing armed groups inside Ethiopian territory as tensions between the neighbors escalate.

Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos said Eritrean forces have occupied parts of Ethiopia’s border areas and called the incursions acts of “outright aggression.”

He demanded that Eritrea withdraw its troops and end support for rebel groups, while saying Ethiopia remains open to dialogue if its territorial integrity is respected.

Relations have deteriorated since the 2022 end of Ethiopia’s Tigray war, which Eritrea did not formally join, despite earlier cooperation, Al-Jazeera has reported.

Eritrea has denied the allegations and remains wary of Ethiopian calls for Red Sea access, which it views as a potential threat.