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

Ethiopia and Iran have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on May 6, 2025, to enhance collaboration between their national police agencies in security and intelligence matters. The agreement aims to combat cross-border crime, share intelligence, and build capacity, including exchanging experiences and training.

For Iran, this MOU signifies a significant move towards bolstering relations with a strategically positioned regional power in the Horn of Africa. Tehran has utilized its security apparatus and military capabilities to foster political and economic ties with African nations, such as providing drone support to Ethiopia during the Tigray conflict from 2020 to 2022 and supplying surveillance and combat drones to the Sudanese army for use in their civil war.

The agreement holds importance for Ethiopia as it is expected to assist the government in addressing ethnic militia challenges and internal instability, particularly in countering factions like the Tigray People’s Liberation Front. Additionally, the deal follows discussions in Addis Ababa between Ethiopian police chief Demelash Gebremichael and a delegation from the UAE, focusing on joint efforts to combat cross-border crime.

Ethiopia’s collaboration with regional rivals like the UAE and Iran demonstrates its pragmatic approach to foreign relations, as it navigates challenges post-Tigray conflict, ethnic tensions, economic difficulties, and renewed friction with Eritrea. The agreement with Iran presents an opportunity for Ethiopia to enhance its security capabilities and potentially prepare for future conflicts, including with Eritrea.

The historical ties between Iran and Ethiopia date back to the 1960s, with a special relationship based on shared ideological stances. Iran’s engagement in the Horn of Africa has faced opposition from countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, seeking to limit Iran’s influence in the region. The security cooperation with Iran could benefit Ethiopia by aiding in combating ethnic militias and preparing for potential conflicts, such as with Eritrea.

Ethiopia’s engagement with Iran and the UAE amidst regional power dynamics highlights a unique convergence of interests between regional rivals, offering a different perspective on their involvement in conflicts in countries like Yemen and Sudan.