Eritrea and the Red Sea: Sovereignty, Strategic Access, and the Limits of Regional Ambition

In an era where maritime routes define global power and regional politics, this book revisits the question of sovereignty in one of the most strategically contested regions of Africa — the Red Sea basin. It explores the delicate balance between geography, law, and national interest, illustrating how access to the sea can evolve from a legitimate need into a geopolitical instrument — sometimes cloaked in the language of cooperation or development. More than a political study, this is a work of reflection and historical awareness — a reminder that sovereignty is not a gift granted by geography, but a right earned through struggle and preserved through vigilance. Why This Book Matters Because it examines the Red Sea and the Horn of Africa through a legal and strategic lens, revealing the complex tension between developmental aspirations and respect for national boundaries. Because it asks the fundamental question: Can regional integration succeed without becoming a cover for dominance or influence? This book speaks to scholars, policymakers, and readers across the world who are concerned with maritime law, sovereignty, and the fragile balance between cooperation and ambition. What the Book Covers Geopolitical context of the Red Sea region Legal foundations of sovereignty and maritime access Historical review of regional power dynamics The Red Sea’s role in shaping regional security Modern challenges: cooperation, competition, and control Strategic appendices exploring possible scenarios and policy directions