Massad Boulos, President Donald Trump’s senior adviser for Arab and African affairs, has categorically rejected claims that Washington was negotiating a secret arrangement involving Eritrea. He stated no such agreement existed or was even under consideration. These remarks come amid increasing scrutiny of US diplomatic engagement with Eritrea, Ethiopia, and Egypt, nations embroiled in disputes over regional security, Nile waters, and access to the Red Sea.
“The Trump administration continues to pursue regional peace through diplomatic engagements with Egypt, Eritrea, and Ethiopia,” Boulos asserted on X. He made it unequivocally clear that “claims that we are negotiating or considering any secret deal involving Eritrea against another regional partner are categorically false.” Boulos did not identify the specific regional partner, but the phrasing strongly suggested Ethiopia.
US Strategic Interests in the Horn
Washington's denial emerged as it intensified its diplomatic focus on Eritrea, a Red Sea state of immense strategic importance. Eritrea boasts over 1,000 kilometers of coastline along one of the world’s most crucial maritime routes. Its location has amplified its strategic value as tensions escalate around Red Sea security, including threats to shipping from the Iran-aligned Houthi rebels in Yemen.
Boulos has previously engaged with Eritrean officials in efforts to improve ties. He has also held discussions with Egyptian leaders, with Cairo playing a facilitating role in contact between Washington and Asmara. This US diplomatic outreach has fueled speculation among regional observers that Eritrea could become part of a broader alignment. Such an alignment would likely involve Egypt and other countries concerned about Ethiopia’s growing regional influence.
Regional Conflicts and External Influence
Ethiopia and Eritrea fought a devastating border war from 1998 to 2000, a conflict that ended 26 to 28 years ago. They restored diplomatic relations 8 years ago, in 2018. However, relations later deteriorated following Eritrea’s involvement in Ethiopia’s Tigray conflict and continuing disagreements over regional security and Red Sea access. Ethiopia has also remained locked in a contentious dispute with Egypt over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.
Cairo has repeatedly warned about potential impacts on downstream water supplies from the dam. Addis Ababa, however, views the project as vital for its national development. Boulos maintained that Washington’s engagement with the three countries was aimed at “advancing lasting peace and stability throughout the Horn of Africa.” He also criticized what he described as false claims and speculation about alleged regional agreements, warning that such allegations could undermine diplomatic efforts.
In recent months, the Trump administration has placed greater emphasis on the Horn of Africa. This region is a hotbed of competition over Red Sea influence, maritime security, and unresolved conflicts, drawing growing international attention.