The Eritrean opposition movement known as the Eritrean Broad Front (EBRF) is positioning itself as a broad coalition that seeks political change in Eritrea through nonviolent means, while maintaining a nuanced relationship with Israel as a key benchmark for potential partnerships. EBRF leaders emphasize the importance of inclusivity within their ranks, incorporating civic organizations, women’s groups, academics, investors, political entities, and diverse Eritrean communities, but they draw a clear line against extremist religious factions such as those aligned with the Muslim Brotherhood or radical Christian movements. They envision a future Eritrea governed under a secular framework.

Leaders of the movement insist that their pursuit of regime change does not entail armed conflict but focuses on information campaigns, diplomatic pressure, civil resistance, and strengthening contacts inside Eritrea. Yet, they acknowledge the considerable challenges posed by the country’s repressive political environment, which stifles open opposition and civil society activity. Despite limited access to reliable data, EBRF maintains that significant segments of the Eritrean population and military are discontented and ready for change.

In planning for a post-Afwerki Eritrea, EBRF leaders have engaged in detailed discussions about transition processes, including establishing interim governance lasting two to three years, drafting constitutional arrangements with term limits and competitive politics, and demobilizing armed conscripts. Recognizing the volatility of thousands of heavily armed conscripts potentially left without central control, EBRF proposes securing international financial assistance to pay and reintegrate former fighters before addressing accountability for past abuses. They propose a limited scope for justice, focusing on senior security officials who might threaten stability, while acknowledging the difficulty of pursuing widespread prosecutions in a society long conditioned to mutual surveillance.

EBRF has expanded its activity beyond the diaspora, organizing politically from neighboring Ethiopia and lobbying in Washington, D.C., while also confronting divisions within the Eritrean community abroad. Tensions famously erupted in south Tel Aviv on September 2, 2023, when hundreds of Eritreans clashed in protests connected to events linked with the Eritrean embassy. The violence, which lasted several hours and required Israeli police response including stun grenades, tear gas, and live fire, left over 100 people wounded and dozens arrested. The clashes underscored the deep fractures among Eritreans abroad between government supporters and opponents.

Israeli lawmaker Yulia Malinovsky, a member of the Yisrael Beytenu party, has taken an active role in addressing these tensions. Citing frequent violence by regime supporters against opponents during Eritrean national events in Israel, Malinovsky has championed legislation aimed at revoking residency permits of Eritrean asylum seekers who openly support the Eritrean government, arguing their claims of danger are unfounded. The legislation, passed in June 2025, also targets those involved in serious criminal activity regardless of political stance. However, implementation has lagged, with only one deportation since enactment despite multiple pending cases.

Despite engagement with the Eritrean opposition within Israel, Malinovsky resists any formal Israeli involvement in Eritrean regime change. She has stated that Israel, facing its own domestic challenges, should not interfere in the internal affairs of other states, including Eritrea.

For EBRF leaders, cultivating a strategic relationship with Israel remains a long-term goal. They highlight areas for potential cooperation such as agriculture, technology, investment, and regional security. Eritrea’s Red Sea coastline, near critical shipping lanes affected by instability in Yemen, presents an opportunity for future partnerships aimed at maintaining maritime security. Some, like EBRF’s Gerezgher, even envision hosting foreign military bases as part of securing Eritrea’s strategic interests.

Beyond politics, the Eritrean opposition community in Israel has demonstrated solidarity during times of crisis. Following the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, Eritrean opposition members volunteered in various support roles, including assisting forensic services, agricultural labor, and visiting soldiers. This participation reflects a deep connection to Israel, particularly among younger Eritreans born and raised there who identify closely with Israeli society.

Amid these complexities, EBRF’s leadership underscores a shared aspiration: the return to a free Eritrea. For many in the diaspora, including those who died in political violence and remain buried abroad, returning home remains impossible under the current regime. EBRF leaders express hope that removing President Isaias Afwerki would eventually allow these individuals and the broader Eritrean diaspora to reclaim their homeland. Until then, the movement continues to build its political and community foundations abroad, preparing for a future they believe will bring democratic change and a restored Eritrea.