The Horn of Africa and Prophecy

After years of a destabilizing relationship following their two-year war from 1998 to 2000, the leaders of Ethiopia and Eritrea recently met and began what many are describing as a “warm friendship” (CSIS, July 25, 2018). This new friendship brings a thaw in relations and the resumption of air flights between the two nations. It also opens up the potential for Ethiopia, a land-locked nation of 70 million people, to use Eritrea’s strategic Red Sea ports. Resumption of relations between these two nations could greatly improve their economies and even stem the tide of refugees to Europe. The two nations have an ancient connection in a region that was once known entirely as Ethiopia.

Other nations—including the United States, Russia, China, Egypt, Turkey, and the Gulf nations—are also interested in Eritrea’s strategic coastline for security and trade reasons. As Ethiopia and Eritrea begin to function together, they will have the potential to greatly impact the future of the entire Horn of Africa.

Bible prophecy also sheds light on the future of this region. Daniel 11:42–43 prophesies of a time, shortly before the return of Christ, when a European “beast” power will be in control of the Holy Land. At some point, provoked by events in North Africa—perhaps related to trade and security—the “beast” or “king of the north” will “stretch out his hand against” several nations in North Africa. “But he will gain control over the hidden treasures of gold and silver and over all the precious things of Egypt; and Libyans and Ethiopians will follow at his heels” (NASB). While short on details, God’s word indicates that Ethiopia and its ancient territory will be involved in the fulfillment of end-time Bible prophecy. For additional information on this timely subject, be sure to read or listen to The Middle East in Prophecy.