In a move that could impact regional stability, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has called on Greece to steer clear of actions that might escalate tensions, highlighting concerns over Athens’ increasing defense ties with Israel. This development underscores the fragile balance in the eastern Mediterranean, where longstanding disputes continue to simmer.
Fidan emphasized Türkiye’s desire to maintain amicable relations with Greece but expressed the need for Athens to consider security concerns, particularly in light of Greece’s military collaboration with Israel and the deployment of military resources on the Aegean islands. These islands are subject to demilitarization agreements, a point of contention that Türkiye has repeatedly raised.
Relations between Greece and Türkiye have seen attempts at improvement over recent years, yet significant issues remain unresolved, including disputes over maritime boundaries, territorial waters, and the military status of the Aegean islands. Greece maintains that its military measures are necessary for its security and sovereign rights.
Furthermore, Fidan criticized Israel’s activities in Syria, citing them as potential threats to regional stability. He reaffirmed Türkiye’s support for Syria in its efforts to restore governance, security, and economic growth, advocating for regional disputes to be settled through diplomatic channels.
In addition to addressing these concerns, the Turkish foreign minister also discussed emerging security cooperation with Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. He mentioned that the three countries are in the process of structuring their security partnership and exploring ways to expand collaboration, focusing on regional coordination concerning security issues, including developments in Yemen and threats to Saudi Arabia.