Eritrea's Blue Revolution: Inside the movement challenging one of Africa's longest-serving rulers

In a modest office nestled in a Tel Aviv side street, a group of men are diligently working on behalf of Eritrea. Michael, also known as Atakliti Abraham, leads the conversation, joined by Mulue Sultan, the international coordinator of the Israeli branch of the Eritrean Blue Revolution Front, and Awat Hagos, the movement's social affairs coordinator in Israel.

Their office serves as a political hub, community center, and meeting place for Eritreans who wish to leave Israel behind. They discuss various topics, including children's soccer programs, computer courses, and their ongoing efforts to connect with a broader opposition network spanning Europe, North America, and Africa.

The Eritrean community in Israel has gained attention primarily due to immigration debates, with some viewing them as "asylum seekers" and others as "infiltrators." However, the men in the office emphasize their attachment to Israel, raising children there and speaking warmly about the country that welcomed them. Yet, their ultimate goal is clear: "If the regime falls tomorrow, tomorrow we go home."

The Eritrean Blue Revolution Front (EBRF) is an international opposition movement that originated from Brigade N Hamedu. Focusing its efforts in Israel, the organization organizes meetings, maintains contact with the Eritrean diaspora, and runs activities for Eritrean youth. A recent EBRF Congress in Israel drew 1,300 attendees.

For many of today's Eritrean youth, Eritrea remains an elusive country, remembered through the eyes of their parents. While some were born in Israel or arrived at a young age, their connection to Eritrea is primarily through their family history. This creates a unique challenge for the opposition movement, as they seek to empower and unite their community while navigating the complexities of their dual identities.