The Italian government took formal possession of the Assab colony from its commercial owners

The Italian government took formal possession of the Assab colony from its commercial owners, marking a pivotal shift in the region's colonial dynamics. Assab, strategically located along the shipping lanes established by the Suez Canal, served as a crucial coaling station for maritime operations. This acquisition was part of Italy's broader ambitions in East Africa, which intensified following the withdrawal of Egyptian forces from Eritrea. The Italian expansion included Massawa and the majority of the Eritrean coastal lowlands, allowing Italy to establish a more significant presence in the region. This move not only facilitated increased trade and military logistics but also set the stage for further colonial endeavors in the Horn of Africa. The control over these territories enabled Italy to enhance its economic interests and assert its influence in a region that was becoming increasingly competitive among European powers.