Israel has strongly criticized the recent decision by Libya’s eastern parliament to ratify a maritime agreement with Türkiye, expressing concerns that it could jeopardize the maritime rights of Greece and Cyprus in the eastern Mediterranean. This region is considered strategically important due to its potential natural gas resources.
The agreement has sparked opposition from Greece, Cyprus, and Egypt, who argue that it infringes on their maritime claims. The European Union has also questioned the legal validity of the deal, emphasizing the importance of respecting the sovereign rights of EU member states under international law. Israel’s Foreign Ministry accused Türkiye of contributing to instability in the region, highlighting its close ties with Greece and Cyprus, which have been strained in recent years due to geopolitical tensions.
Türkiye, on the other hand, has defended the agreement as being consistent with international law and beneficial to both nations involved. Türkiye’s Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan, stated that the Libyan parliament’s approval formalized an arrangement that Türkiye already deemed effective.
This maritime agreement also underscores the complex and divided political landscape of Libya. Eastern Libya, under the leadership of military commander Khalifa Haftar, has maintained a rivalry with the internationally recognized government in Tripoli. Despite this, its relationship with Ankara has developed in recent years.
The European Union has reiterated calls for adherence to international maritime law and the sovereign rights of all member states. Greece has raised concerns about the agreement’s potential impact on the security and stability of the eastern Mediterranean at the United Nations.