Greek Foreign Minister Warns Turkey: Passive Days Are Over Amid Rising Tensions

Amid escalating tensions between Israel and Turkey, Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis issued a stern warning to Ankara on August 23, 2026, declaring that Greece is fully prepared for any scenario. He emphasized that any attempt to infringe on Greece's sovereign rights will be met with all available means. Gerapetritis rejected claims that Greece pursues a soft policy toward Turkey, stating that the era of passive diplomacy and diplomatic stagnation has ended, though Greece still seeks peace and dialogue without compromising its sovereignty.

The tensions between Greece and Turkey stem largely from disputes over sovereignty and maritime boundaries in the Aegean Sea and Eastern Mediterranean. Gerapetritis criticized Turkey's declaration of maritime parks, labeling them illegal and extending beyond Turkey's territorial waters into undemarcated maritime zones.

In his interview, Gerapetritis highlighted Greece's strategic alliances, naming Israel as a key partner alongside the United States, France, Egypt, India, and Gulf states. This statement underscores the growing regional cooperation amid the strained relations with Turkey. The ongoing friction also reflects broader geopolitical shifts involving Israel, Turkey, and their respective allies in the Eastern Mediterranean region.