Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — May 12, 2026 | Horn News Hub
The United States has lifted its strict policy of denial on arms export applications involving Ethiopia, marking a significant shift in Washington’s approach toward security cooperation with Addis Ababa.
According to an update issued by the U.S. Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC) on May 11, export license applications related to Ethiopia’s military, police, and security institutions will now be reviewed on a case by case basis rather than being automatically rejected.
The policy change also includes a forthcoming regulatory revision expected to remove Ethiopia from the list of countries restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).
The restrictions were originally imposed by the administration of former U.S. President Joe Biden in 2021 following allegations of human rights violations during the conflict in northern Ethiopia.
Under the previous policy, the United States maintained a broad denial stance on licenses involving defense articles and related services destined for Ethiopian security institutions.
The DDTC stated that future applications will instead undergo individual review procedures in line with U.S. national security and foreign policy considerations.
The U.S. Government uses export controls under the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and ITAR frameworks to regulate the transfer of military equipment, dual use technologies, and defense related services.
The latest move is expected to signal a gradual normalization of security relations between Ethiopia and the United States after years of diplomatic strain linked to the Tigray conflict.
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