Israel has voiced strong opposition to the recent decision by Libya’s eastern parliament to approve a maritime agreement with Türkiye, highlighting tensions over maritime rights in the eastern Mediterranean. This agreement, which delineates maritime boundaries, is considered significant due to the area’s potential natural gas reserves.
The deal has been a point of contention, drawing criticism from Greece, Cyprus, and Egypt, who argue that it conflicts with their own maritime claims. The European Union has also questioned the legal validity of the agreement, urging respect for the sovereign rights of its member states as per international law.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry has accused Türkiye of exacerbating instability in the eastern Mediterranean, aligning itself with Greece and Cyprus, with whom it maintains close relations. The strained relationship between Israel and Türkiye has been exacerbated by differences over the conflict in Gaza in recent years.
Türkiye, however, defends the agreement, claiming it aligns with international law and serves the interests of both nations involved. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized that the Libyan parliament’s approval merely formalizes an arrangement that Türkiye already considered operational.
This maritime dispute also underscores Libya’s complex political landscape. Eastern Libya, under the leadership of military commander Khalifa Haftar, has been at odds with the internationally recognized government in Tripoli, despite developing ties with Ankara in recent years.
The European Union has reiterated the importance of adhering to international maritime law and respecting the sovereign rights of all member states. Greece has taken the issue to the United Nations, warning that the agreement could pose risks to security and stability in the eastern Mediterranean region.