Israel has criticized the Libyan parliament’s approval of a maritime agreement with Türkiye, warning that this move could disrupt the maritime rights of regional stakeholders, especially Greece and Cyprus. This agreement pertains to the contested boundaries in the eastern Mediterranean, a region significant for its potential natural gas reserves.
The deal has sparked opposition from several countries, including Greece, Cyprus, and Egypt, which argue that it infringes upon their maritime claims. The European Union has also questioned the legal validity of the agreement, emphasizing the necessity of respecting the sovereign rights of its member states under international law.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry accused Türkiye of contributing to instability in the eastern Mediterranean, underscoring its strong ties with Greece and Cyprus. This development comes amid strained relations between Israel and Türkiye, exacerbated by conflicts such as the war in Gaza.
Türkiye, on the other hand, has defended the agreement, asserting its alignment with international law and benefits for both nations involved. Türkiye’s Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan, stated that the Libyan parliament’s approval formalizes a pre-existing arrangement considered effective by Türkiye.
The controversy highlights Libya’s complex political landscape, where eastern Libya, led by military commander Khalifa Haftar, maintains a rivalry with the internationally recognized government in Tripoli. Despite this division, eastern Libya has developed a relationship with Ankara in recent years.
The European Union has called for adherence to international maritime law and the sovereign rights of all member states. Meanwhile, Greece has taken the issue to the United Nations, expressing concerns that the agreement could threaten security and stability across the eastern Mediterranean.