The Great Sea Interconnector is facing renewed geopolitical pressure in the Eastern Mediterranean following reports of a proposed Turkish law linked to the so-called “Blue Homeland” doctrine, which could impact major regional energy projects connecting Greece, Cyprus and Israel.
Great Sea Interconnector is designed to link the electricity grids of the three countries, but emerging regional tensions are raising concerns over its implementation and security.
Turkey’s “Blue Homeland” legislation raises concerns
According to a report by the Israeli financial outlet Globes, Turkey is preparing to pass legislation next month based on the “Blue Homeland” doctrine, which asserts expanded maritime claims across the Eastern Mediterranean, the Aegean Sea and the Black Sea.
The doctrine, often associated with Ankara’s maritime strategy, is reported to challenge established maritime boundaries and could directly affect infrastructure projects such as undersea electricity and telecommunications cables, including the Great Sea Interconnector.
Blue Homeland doctrine is described as a strategic approach that could escalate regional disputes over sovereignty and maritime jurisdiction.
Report highlights interference risks in energy projects
The Globes report also references past incidents involving Turkish objections to undersea cable works, including tensions around the Italian vessel NG Worker between Kasos and Karpathos, where operations reportedly faced warnings from Turkish authorities.
Experts quoted in the report, including Dr Hay Eitan Cohen Yanarocak of Tel Aviv University and the Jerusalem Institute for Strategic Studies, said Turkey views cooperation between Greece, Cyprus and Israel as a strategic challenge.
Energy security and regional stakes
Despite rising tensions, Israel reportedly considers the Great Sea Interconnector essential for its long-term energy security, as its electricity system currently operates in isolation.
The interconnection is expected to enhance resilience during crises or potential disruptions to critical infrastructure.
An unnamed senior Greek official told Globes that Greece, Cyprus and Israel remain committed to advancing the project, but described Turkey as a disruptive factor that disregards international law and neighbouring states’ rights.
Most complex section is Cyprus–Crete link
The report highlights that the Cyprus–Crete segment is considered the most technically and politically challenging part of the project due to potential Turkish objections in the region.
The total investment for the Cyprus–Greece link is estimated at €1.9 billion, with around 35% expected to be financed by the European Union.
The remaining funding is expected to come mainly from Greece and Cyprus, while international investors and energy companies are reportedly evaluating participation.
Project moves towards final assessment phase
According to Globes, Israel’s Ministry of Energy stated that the project is currently in the final stage of cost-benefit analysis, after which cost allocation among participating countries will be completed.
Officials across the three countries continue to push for faster progress, although the complexity of the infrastructure means completion will take several years.
Also read: President calls EU response to Turkish “Blue Homeland” doctrine
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