Isaias Afwerki

Force in Play

Presiding over Eritrea's severance of diplomatic ties with Ethiopia

Ethiopian federal forces entered Mekelle, Tigray's regional capital, on October 4 after the rebel alliance withdrew without a fight. Federal troops patrol the city, but government services are still closed and the allied Tigray Peace Force imposed an overnight curfew on October 7.

Updated 16 hours ago

Rule Changes

In power; party and military sanctions lifted

The US Treasury lifted sanctions on September 18 against Eritrea's ruling party, the People's Front for Democracy and Justice (PFDJ), its military, and two linked businesses. A five-year national emergency declared by President Joe Biden in 2021 expired without renewal, erasing penalties imposed after Eritrean troops joined Ethiopia's assault on Tigray fighters.

Updated Sep 20

Force in Play

Accused of directing mass atrocities; building regional alliances against Ethiopia

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed won the 2019 Nobel Peace Prize for ending a 20-year standoff with Eritrea. Now he's publicly accusing Eritrean troops of massacring Ethiopian civilians during their joint war against Tigray—a war they fought together as allies.

Updated May 26