Turkey Claims Victory Over Greece in Mediterranean Dispute

Turkey has declared victory over Greece in a dispute concerning a French research vessel operating in the Eastern Mediterranean. Admiral Yaidji of Turkey asserted that the vessel only began its work in the disputed area after receiving permission from Ankara, stating that a notification from Greece was insufficient. This incident is part of a long-standing conflict over maritime borders, energy resources, and regional influence.

According to Yaidji, Athens initially issued a NAVTEX navigational warning to facilitate the French vessel's operations in the contested zone. However, the vessel did not commence work. Subsequently, Turkey issued its own warning, specifying the research area and granting France official consent to operate there. Admiral Yaidji claims the vessel only moved after this Turkish authorization, highlighting France's lack of objection to Ankara's move as proof of Turkey's rights to the continental shelf in the Eastern Mediterranean.

"Greece's notification was not enough to move the ship. Turkey got what it wanted, and Greece suffered a crushing defeat," Yaidji stated. Israel, alongside Greece and Cyprus, has reiterated its opposition to Turkey's maritime claims. The European Union previously recognized Turkey's agreement as contrary to maritime law and invalid for third countries.

Meanwhile, Ankara has announced its intention to codify the "Blue Homeland" doctrine into law. This dispute jeopardizes a planned underwater power cable project, the Great Sea Interconnector, intended to link the energy grids of Greece and Cyprus. The French-flagged research vessel Abeille Marengo is conducting preparatory work for this project, which has EU project of common interest status. Turkey has previously objected to the project due to its competing maritime claims.

This incident follows recent tensions, including reports of Turkish intelligence chief delivering a message from President Erdogan to the Greek Prime Minister, threatening military action over Athens' cooperation with Israel. Turkey has also proposed a maritime deal to Egypt that could further complicate its relationship with Greece.