Given its vast landmass and population, Ethiopia has a sovereign right to access and utilize the Red Sea, according to prominent Egyptian political analyst Magdy Khalil.

Speaking on regional dynamics, Khalil emphasized that nations surrounding the Red Sea need to engage in constructive dialogue based on shared interests to eliminate unhealthy competition. He pointed to historical missteps, noting that Cairo’s support for the Eritrean Liberation Front during the 1960s was a critical mistake that damaged the brotherly ties that should naturally exist between Ethiopia and Egypt.

Highlighting the need for a shift in perspective, Khalil asserted that had Egyptian leaders been wise and visionary, they would have supported Ethiopia’s efforts to return to the Red Sea rather than opposing them. He added that peaceful agreements offer a viable path to fulfill Ethiopia's need for a sea outlet while establishing lasting peace across the Horn of Africa.

According to a report by the Ethiopian News Agency, Khalil confirmed that during past periods in history when Ethiopia maintained access to the sea, it never posed a threat to neighboring nations.