In December 1934, a border clash between Italian and Abyssinian troops occurred near the Walwal oasis due to the undefined borders between Italian Somaliland and Abyssinia. Mussolini demanded compensation and apologies from Abyssinia for the Italian casualties. Haile Selassie, the leader of Abyssinia, requested the League of Nations to mediate, but the League declined because of the border dispute. In an attempt to prevent further escalation, the League placed an arms embargo on both countries. This embargo had a stronger negative impact on Abyssinia, as Italy could produce its own armaments. In October 1935, Italy launched an invasion of Abyssinia. Abyssinia struggled to confront the technologically superior Italian army and air force due to economic limitations and the arms embargo. Despite their advantage, Italian forces used illegal fighting methods, including attacking civilians, ambulances, and using chemical weapons. The League of Nations formed a committee to investigate but never reached a verdict. Britain and France remained silent on the issue.

• Abyssinia: Now known as Ethiopia, was an African country that was invaded by Italy in 1935.
• Italian Somaliland: A colony in the Horn of Africa under Italian rule. It was adjacent to Abyssinia.
• League of Nations: An international organization formed after World War I to resolve conflicts diplomatically and prevent war.
• Haile Selassie: Leader of Abyssinia who appealed to the League of Nations for assistance during the Italian invasion.
• Mussolini: The fascist leader of Italy, who was eager to expand his country's territories in Africa.