Djibouti: Government claims Eritrean forces have occupied disputed territory June 16

Event

Djibouti’s Foreign Minister, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, announced on Friday, June 16, that the country’s military forces are on alert amid claims that Eritrean forces have occupied disputed territory along their border. According to Youssouf, the Eritrean forces have taken control of Dumeira Mountain and Dumeria Island, breaching a United Nations Security Council resolution. Djibouti has filed formal complaints with the UN and the African Union.

Context

Peacekeepers from Qatar withdrew from Dumeria Mountain on June 12 and 13 after Eritrea voiced support for the Saudi-led effort to isolate Qatar. Djibouti has also downgraded ties with Qatar. Doha did not give a reason for why it withdrew its forces, but it is likely linked to the ongoing dispute between the country and the Gulf states. Qatar deployed peacekeepers to the region in 2010 after clashes broke out over the territory in June 2008 and had helped broker a peace deal.

Advice

Individuals in Djibouti are advised to monitor the situation and to avoid affected areas.