Turkish Foreign Minister criticises regional alliances
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has criticised Greece and its cooperation with Israel, warning that recent regional alignments in the Eastern Mediterranean risk increasing tensions.
In a statement to the Turkish state news agency Anadolu, Fidan referred to what he described as “security-driven alliances” involving Greece, Cyprus and Israel, suggesting they contribute to pressure on Turkey in the region.
Hakan Fidan’s comments on “encirclement” claims
Fidan claimed that Ankara is closely monitoring what he called attempts to “encircle” Turkey through cooperation between Greece, the Republic of Cyprus and Israel.
He argued that these developments form part of a wider strategic pattern that Turkey has been observing over recent years, adding that earlier efforts allegedly aimed to include additional regional partners had been prevented.
Criticism of Greek foreign policy
The Turkish Foreign Minister also described Greek foreign policy as “risky”, suggesting that Athens is pursuing positions not commonly followed by other European states.
He warned that such policies could increase regional instability and lead to further tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Fidan further claimed that closer military cooperation between Greece, Cyprus and Israel does not contribute to stability, questioning its strategic purpose.
Greece rejects allegations
In response to Hakan Fidan’s remarks, the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs rejected the claims, stressing that Greece’s international partnerships are defensive and aimed at promoting regional stability.
The ministry underlined that cooperation frameworks involving Greece, Cyprus and Israel are not directed against any third country.
It also stated that Greece, as a member of the EU, NATO and the UN Security Council, conducts an independent foreign policy and “does not accept instructions or owe explanations to anyone”.
Rising tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean
The exchange highlights ongoing diplomatic friction between Athens and Ankara, particularly over energy, maritime boundaries and regional alliances in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Despite repeated disagreements, both sides continue to maintain formal diplomatic channels while reinforcing their respective security partnerships.
Also read: Occupied Cyprus reacts to Turkish flag burning at Easter bonfires
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