AU 22 May called for UNSC to impose sanctions on Eritrea following reports of arms support for Somali Islamist militia al-Shabaab. Govt strongly rejected allegations, claimed fabricated by U.S. CIA. Sanctions call echoed late month by IGAD states and UN representatives meeting at 20 May session on Somalia. Information Minister 4 May announced Eritrea does not recognize Somalian govt.

In wake of June 2008 border clashes, UNSC 14 Jan issued resolution praising Djibouti for military withdrawal to pre-confl locations, demanding Eritrea follow suit within 5 weeks and cooperate with diplomatic efforts. Asmara 15 Jan dismissed resolution as “ill-considered”, said cannot withdraw forces from its own territory.

Last UNMEE peacekeeping contingent left border 15 Oct; UNSG Ban 13 Oct transmitted final report of Eritrea-Ethiopia Boundary Commission (EEBC) on border dispute to UNSC. EEBC concluded that since no action taken by parties to demarcate on ground, boundary demarcated by coordinates. Eritrea reiterated acceptance of EEBC’s final ruling; Ethiopia did not respond.

Fighting erupted at Ras-Doumeira border area following increased tensions over disputed territory. 10-11 June clashes reportedly left at least 9 Djibouti soldiers dead, more injured both sides. AU, UN condemned Eritrea military action. Djibouti said incursions continuing. Eritrea blamed Djibouti for attack, denied border dispute and rejected dialogue.