Ethiopia has accused Eritrean forces of crossing into its northern Tigray region and has invoked its right to self-defence, while Eritrea denies the allegations and has accused Addis Ababa of preparing the ground for aggression.

Ethiopian troops have meanwhile advanced to Zalambessa, a town on the border, as international diplomatic efforts intensify to prevent further escalation. The tensions are unfolding alongside renewed fighting in Tigray and a longstanding dispute over Ethiopia's ambitions for direct access to the Red Sea, creating fears that another confrontation could have consequences far beyond the two countries. 

To unpack the security implications, Mpho Sithole spoke to Azaniah Mnisi, a security analyst specialising in crime, security and social policy.