

Iran and Ethiopia have a security deal – here’s why they signed it

Ethiopia and Iran signed a memorandum of understanding in early May to enhance cooperation between their national police forces on intelligence sharing, cross-border crime, and security training—an effort analysts say bolsters Tehran’s growing influence in the Horn of Africa.
The agreement signals Iran’s intent to deepen political and security ties with African states through its military and intelligence apparatus, according to Eric Lob, associate professor of politics and international relations at Florida International University, writing for The Conversation.
Iran has previously supplied surveillance and combat drones to Ethiopia, aiding government forces during the 2020–2022 Tigray conflict.
The US State Department reported last year that Iran had breached a UN Security Council resolution by sending armed drones to Ethiopia in the summer of 2021.
https://www.iranintl.com/en/202505132479