Turkey raises tensions over Cyprus Plot 6 energy project in Eastern Mediterranean

Turkish media outlets aHaber and A Haber reported that the commencement of exploration activities by European energy firms Eni and Total on Cyprus’ Plot 6 in the island’s exclusive economic zone is "heating the waters" of the Eastern Mediterranean. The reports claim the work challenges Turkey’s claimed rights over plots 4‑7 and urges Ankara to protect what it describes as its and Turkish‑Cypriot interests. Turkey warned that its navy is on heightened readiness from the Aksaz base and hinted at possible confrontations if French or Italian warships appear to safeguard the energy projects. The outlets also accused Greece, Cyprus and their allies, including the United States and Israel, of escalating the dispute.

The Turkish narrative frames the Cyprus‑Egypt gas pipeline and LNG exports to Europe as an attempt to sideline Turkey from regional energy routes, reinforcing Ankara’s broader strategic claims in the Eastern Mediterranean.