evidence: The border dispute between Djibouti and Eritrea over the Ras Doumeira peninsula and Doumeira Islands dates back to the colonial era and has roots in competing colonial interests between Italy and France in the Horn of Africa region. Despite intermittent attempts at resolution, the dispute continues to fester and remains a source of tension between the two countries. This article will provide an overview of the historical origins and key dimensions of the border dispute, analyze the impact it has had on relations between Djibouti and Eritrea, and assess expected and possible future developments. [...] The ongoing border dispute has proven to be a major impediment to normalizing relations between Eritrea and Djibouti. The countries have not had diplomatic relations since 2008.[15] Resolution of the issue via bilateral channels has been complicated by the hardened stances of both governments. The Afwerki and Gouled administrations insist on sovereignty over Ras Doumeira.[16] Litigating the dispute at the International Court of Justice also does not appear politically viable for either country.[17] [...] Strategically, the dispute fuels mutual suspicions between Asmara and Djibouti. The Ras Doumeira peninsula overlooks the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, a sensitive maritime chokepoint leading to the Suez Canal.[21] Djibouti hosts military bases for the U.S. and France, while Eritrea has cultivated closer ties to countries like Russia, Iran and China.[22] Each capital perceives motives to monitor or influence the other’s strategic outlook and external partnerships.