Ethiopia Decides to Close Embassy in Asmara, Declares 10 Eritrean Diplomats Persona Non Grata

Addis Ababa, October 1, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia has decided to close its Embassy in Asmara and declared 10 Eritrean diplomats in Addis Ababa persona non grata, citing what it described as direct and indirect acts of hostility and belligerence by Eritrea.

In a press statement issued Thursday, the Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the decision to close the embassy was taken in response to Eritrea’s conduct toward Ethiopia.

The Ministry said the 10 Eritrean diplomats had been declared persona non grata for involvement in activities that pose a direct threat to Ethiopia’s national security and constitute a breach of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.

The diplomats have been given 48 hours to leave Ethiopia, according to the Ministry.

At the same time, Ethiopia called on the Eritrean government to cease acts it said are contrary to the principles governing relations between sovereign states.

The Ministry stressed that Ethiopia continues to value the strong historical, cultural and people-to-people ties between the two countries, while emphasizing its longstanding commitment to peaceful coexistence, regional stability and integration.

“Ethiopia remains committed to the peaceful resolution of disputes,” the Ministry said, adding that it remains ready to work with countries across the Horn of Africa to advance lasting peace, security and regional integration.

The announcement marks a significant diplomatic measure by Ethiopia toward Eritrea, while the MFA’s statement simultaneously underscored Addis Ababa’s stated commitment to peaceful resolution and regional cooperation.