Sudan, Ethiopia: Sudan reopens Gallabat border post with Ethiopia as of July 18

Event

Authorities have reopened the Gallabat border post-crossing between Sudan and Ethiopia as of July 18 after bilateral talks. The border post was closed June 26 following clashes between Sudanese and Ethiopian border guards.

Despite the reopening of the Gallabat border crossing, travel disruptions on both sides of the border will likely continue in the coming weeks. An increased security deployment is also likely to monitor the movement of people and goods.

Context

Since mid-December 2020, border tensions between Sudan and Ethiopia over the Al-Afshqa Triangle, a disputed territory near the Sudan and Ethiopia border, has escalated as both countries deployed additional armed forces to the area. Ethiopian forces controlled the territory for decades until Sudanese armed forces advanced into the area Dec. 16 2020, after Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed redeployed armed divisions to the conflict in Ethiopia's northern Tigray region. Since then, both countries have been increasing their military presence and security posture Al-Afshqa Triangle, leading to clashes that have resulted in dozens of fatalities.

Additionally, the reopening occurred amid Ethiopia’s plan to fill the controversial Grand Ethiopia Renaissance Dam (GERD) from the Nile River in summer (July-August) for the third time. Both Sudan and Egypt rejected the decision fearing the move would reduce the water volume entering their territories.

Advice

Confirm route status before attempting to travel or route freight shipments through the crossings between Sudan and Ethiopia. Ensure all travel and identification papers are in order. Remain nonconfrontational with customs and immigration officials at all times.