NISS Director General Redwan Reaffirms Ethiopia's Commitment to Advancing Regional Peace

Addis Ababa, October 23, 2026 (ENA) — National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS) Director General Redwan Hussien reaffirmed Ethiopia's steadfast commitment to advancing regional peace, stability, and economic integration across the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea corridor.

Speaking at the Tana Forum 2026 Special Envoys Dialogue, Redwan highlighted the Horn of Africa's pivotal geopolitical importance and immense strategic potential.

The intelligence chief elaborated that the region is endowed with vast untapped resources, including critical minerals, arable land, and water, as well as a strategic location connecting global trade routes through the Red Sea, the Arabian Peninsula, the Indian Ocean, and the Mediterranean Sea.

However, the NISS chief warned that the region stands at a perilous geopolitical crossroads.

 

He cited escalating tensions driven by historical grievances, resource disputes, internal unrest, and complex intra- and interstate conflicts, compounded by foreign power rivalries and persistent threats of extremism and terrorism.

"The region's strategic resources and geographic importance have long exposed it to foreign influences, as major global and regional powers vie for control ... creating a highly volatile region prone to severe geopolitical instability," Redwan stated.

Addressing security across the broader Red Sea region, Redwan pointed to the growing militarization of the maritime zone and disruptions to commercial shipping lanes, particularly renewed attacks and blockades around the strategic Bab al-Mandeb Strait.

He stressed that safeguarding critical global shipping routes cannot be outsourced to a select few countries.

"The security of the Red Sea could not be left solely to the stewardship and guardianship of a few littoral states," Redwan asserted, calling instead for a collective and collaborative approach involving regional states and dependable international partners.

As a landlocked nation heavily reliant on Red Sea maritime trade for its economic vitality, Ethiopia has a vital interest and responsibility in mitigating regional security threats, he added.

Reiterating Ethiopia's focus on rapid economic development and deeper regional integration, Redwan emphasized that navigating the Horn of Africa's complex geopolitical landscape requires innovative ideas and a multifaceted strategy.

 

He expressed confidence that the Tana Forum's Special Envoys Dialogue would yield actionable recommendations to align ongoing peace initiatives and strengthen cooperation between regional and continental frameworks.

"I reaffirm Ethiopia's steadfast commitment to advancing regional peace, and I look forward to continuing our engagement across other platforms," Redwan underscored.