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Why did the United Nations Security Council lift sanctions on Eritrea in 2018?

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The United Nations Security Council lifted sanctions on Eritrea in November 2018 primarily due to the country's significantly improved diplomatic relations with its regional neighbors.12

Following political changes in Ethiopia earlier that year, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed moved to resolve the long-standing border conflict, leading to a historic joint statement in July 2018 that officially ended the 20-year state of war between the two nations. This breakthrough facilitated further regional stability, including the reestablishment of diplomatic ties between Eritrea and Somalia, as well as an agreement between Eritrea and Djibouti to restore relations after a decade of tension.12

These developments addressed the primary concerns that had prompted the UN to impose and expand sanctions in 2009 and 2011, specifically regarding Eritrea's alleged support for insurgents in Somalia and its border disputes with Djibouti.12