Israel has voiced strong opposition to the Libyan parliament’s ratification of a maritime agreement with Türkiye, highlighting concerns that the deal could undermine the maritime rights of regional partners such as Greece and Cyprus. The agreement, which delineates boundaries in the eastern Mediterranean, has sparked controversy due to the area’s potential for significant natural gas resources.
Greece, Cyprus, and Egypt have all objected to the agreement, arguing it conflicts with their maritime claims. The European Union has also questioned the legal validity of the deal, underscoring the importance of respecting the sovereign rights of its member states under international law. Israel’s Foreign Ministry has criticized Türkiye for exacerbating instability in the eastern Mediterranean, noting its close ties with Greece and Cyprus and the broader deterioration in relations between Israel and Türkiye, particularly concerning the conflict in Gaza.
Türkiye, however, has defended the agreement, asserting that it complies with international law and serves the interests of both countries involved. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated that the Libyan parliament’s approval merely formalized an arrangement that Türkiye already considered effective.
The situation is further complicated by Libya’s own political landscape. Eastern Libya, under the influence of military commander Khalifa Haftar, has maintained a rivalry with the internationally recognized government in Tripoli, although its relationship with Türkiye has grown in recent years.
The European Union has reiterated the necessity of adhering to international maritime law and respecting the sovereign rights of all its member states. Greece has taken the matter to the United Nations, expressing concerns that the agreement could jeopardize security and stability in the eastern Mediterranean region.