JOHANNESBURG, May 5 – The United States is preparing to lift sanctions on Eritrea, according to an internal government document, in a move analysts say reflects the country’s rising strategic importance along the Red Sea trade corridor.
The decision, expected to take effect around early May, would reverse sanctions imposed in 2021 targeting Eritrea’s ruling party, military and senior officials over their role in the conflict in northern Ethiopia.
Washington’s shift comes as global energy and trade routes are being reshaped by disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict, including the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The developments have increased the strategic value of the Red Sea, a critical shipping route connecting Europe and Asia.
Eritrea, which sits along the Red Sea opposite Saudi Arabia, is increasingly viewed as a key geopolitical player in securing maritime flows. Analysts say the move is aimed at improving bilateral relations while also signalling to Ethiopia to avoid escalating tensions with its neighbour.
The Horn of Africa remains fragile, with ongoing conflict in Sudan, instability in Somalia, and renewed tensions between Eritrea and Ethiopia.
The sanctions, introduced under former President Joe Biden, followed Eritrea’s involvement in the 2020–2022 Tigray conflict, which resulted in widespread humanitarian devastation. U.N. investigators and rights groups accused Eritrean forces of serious abuses, allegations the government has consistently denied.
Eritrea, led by President Isaias Afwerki, has long faced criticism over governance and human rights, with advocacy groups describing it as one of the world’s most restrictive political systems.
Beyond bilateral relations, the policy shift is also seen as part of a broader U.S. strategy to maintain influence in a region where control of trade routes is becoming increasingly contested.
Tensions between Eritrea and Ethiopia have resurfaced despite a 2018 peace agreement, with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed recently signalling interest in securing sea access, a position widely viewed by Eritrea as a potential threat.
According to the U.S. document, Washington has warned both countries against actions that could further destabilise the region, emphasising opposition to any attempt to secure maritime access through force.
The planned removal of sanctions underscores a recalibration of U.S. foreign policy priorities, where geopolitical considerations tied to trade routes and energy security are increasingly shaping engagement across Africa.
