Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki has issued a stern warning to neighboring countries allegedly supplying weapons and drones to rebel forces in Sudan, stating that Eritrea is fully prepared to take action against such activities, particularly along the eastern front. “We are ready… we are ready,” Afwerki asserted, emphasizing Eritrea’s commitment to safeguarding regional stability.
During a meeting with a Sudanese press delegation in Asmara, Afwerki disclosed details of the last visit by Sudanese paramilitary leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (commonly known as Hemeti) to Eritrea, which took place one month before the outbreak of war in Sudan. Afwerki described Hemeti as a “simple being who does not understand,” adding that when he asked Hemeti why he harbored animosity towards the Sudanese Armed Forces, he received no convincing response.
Afwerki underscored the central role of the Sudanese army in maintaining the country’s integrity, stating, “The Sudanese army is the foundation of the state, and every honorable Sudanese must support it.” He further accused external powers of trying to dismantle Sudan by undermining its military, particularly in Darfur, which he referred to as the “frontline” of the ongoing conflict.
The Eritrean president also criticized neighboring countries that oppose Sudan, claiming they are not acting independently but are controlled by external agendas. He warned that these countries risk turning Sudan and its people into victims of regional power struggles. Afwerki emphasized that the solution to Sudan’s crisis lies not with international organizations but with Sudanese people themselves, asserting that they do not need outsiders to dictate how to rebuild their nation.
Afwerki also revealed that during Hemeti’s visit to Asmara in March 2023, Hemeti requested assistance from Israel in acquiring agricultural technology for Sudan. Afwerki responded by pointing out that Sudan’s Gezira Scheme once contributed 10% of Britain’s budget, highlighting Sudan’s capability to develop its own agricultural expertise without foreign assistance.
Afwerki was critical of Hemeti’s behavior during his visit, accusing him of distributing money in a manner Afwerki deemed unethical. “He believes he can buy everything with money,” Afwerki remarked.
Commenting on Sudan’s ongoing political and ideological disputes, Afwerki called on Sudanese citizens to prioritize national unity and stability. He urged them to form a strong, unified front to navigate the post-war era, stressing the importance of establishing political, media, and diplomatic alliances to support the Sudanese army in its battle to secure the nation.
Afwerki also reiterated his opposition to South Sudan’s secession in 2011, arguing that foreign powers succeeded in pushing through an agenda that weakened Sudan. He criticized Sudan’s former ruling party, the National Congress, for aiding this agenda, despite their ideological differences with Eritrea at the time.
Reflecting on Eritrea’s refusal to mediate in Sudan’s current crisis, Afwerki explained that the various peace initiatives had devolved into “political bazaars” incapable of resolving a conflict that threatens not just Sudan but the entire region. He emphasized that Sudan remains the anchor for regional stability, and any prolonged conflict could destabilize neighboring countries.
