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Tensions flared in the Horn of Africa earlier this week when Eritrea accused Ethiopia of massing troops near the disputed border village of Badme. Maj. Gen. Robert Gordon, commander of U.N. peacekeeping forces along the border between Ethiopia and Eritrea, later dismissed the accusation, the U.N. Integrated Regional Information Network reported Feb. 13.
Eritrea's claims demonstrate the potential for a flare-up in conflict in the Horn. And though neither side might be willing to abrogate the December 2000 peace deal, both might try to exploit the U.S. military's need for calm in the Horn of Africa as leverage to garner more attention -- and benefits -- from Washington.
Trouble between Addis Ababa and Asmara could threaten U.S. anti-terrorism efforts in the region and create problems for the U.S. military's war plans in Iraq. The Horn of Africa abuts the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, and it is critical for controlling the strategic Bab al Mandab chokepoint. The United States will pressure both countries to refrain from outright confrontation.
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