Eastern Mediterranean energy project sparks maritime dispute

Tensions are rising in the Eastern Mediterranean regarding the Great Sea Interconnector project, a subsea electricity cable linking Greece and Cyprus. Greece is expected to issue a new NAVTEX between October 23 and 26 to resume seabed research activities. This follows a planned multinational military exercise involving Greece, Cyprus, France, and Italy near Meis.

Turkey has formally objected to these activities, issuing its own NAVTEX to assert that the planned geophysical research areas fall within the Turkish continental shelf. Ankara maintains that such activities infringe upon its maritime rights and jurisdiction.

The United States has signaled strong support for the energy project. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Washington will engage in diplomatic efforts to ensure the cable's progress, emphasizing the strategic importance of diversifying energy routes. Additionally, U.S. Senator Rick Scott highlighted the strategic significance of the energy line's security during a visit to Cyprus.