Ethiopia's army pledges restraint amid concerns over renewed civil conflict

Ethiopia's army has said it will exercise restraint amid growing concerns about the possibility of renewed civil conflict in the country.

The army chief accused Eritrea of funding and supporting armed groups as part of an effort to weaken Ethiopia, raising tensions between the two neighboring countries at a moment when fears of a new civil war inside Ethiopia have been increasing.

The accusation reflects longstanding regional tensions between Ethiopia and Eritrea, which have at times cooperated and at other times been in open conflict in recent years. The latest comments point to renewed friction over the role outside actors may be playing in Ethiopia's internal security situation.

Ethiopia has faced multiple internal conflicts in recent years involving various armed groups, and the prospect of a new civil war would carry significant humanitarian and political consequences for the country and the wider Horn of Africa region.

The army's pledge of restraint suggests an effort to avoid escalating tensions further, even as it publicly raises concerns about external support for armed groups operating within Ethiopia.