Eastern Libya parliament ratifies maritime deal with Turkey

The House of Representatives in eastern Libya has unanimously ratified a 2019 maritime memorandum of understanding with Turkey. This decision marks a significant political shift, as the eastern-based parliament—aligned with Marshal Khalifa Haftar’s forces—had previously opposed the agreement and sought to sever ties with Ankara.

The pact defines maritime jurisdiction zones stretching from the southwest coast of Turkey to the Libyan coast. The agreement has drawn sharp condemnation from several regional actors, including Egypt, Greece, Israel, and Cyprus. Egypt described the deal as a “clear violation of Egypt’s sovereign rights” and declared it “null and void.” Israel accused Turkey of attempting to “destabilize the Eastern Mediterranean” and stated the pact undermines the sovereign rights of regional allies.

Critics, including the European Union, argue the agreement violates international law by ignoring the maritime rights of Greek islands such as Crete and Rhodes. The ratification signals a deepening strategic and military alliance between Turkey and the eastern Libyan bloc, which has seen increased cooperation through military training, drone support, and expanding commercial contracts.