energy alliances — Cyprus has been accused of forging energy alliances in the Eastern Mediterranean to marginalise Turkey, as Turkish MP Ayse Bohurler expressed concerns regarding joint projects involving Greece, Egypt, and Israel.
During a recent interview on Haberturk, Bohurler, part of President Tayyip Erdogan’s ruling AK Party, highlighted that these collaborations are perceived as attempts to restrict Turkey’s access to its continental shelf. She asserted that Ankara is closely monitoring the unfolding situation and may take necessary actions if deemed essential.
Bohurler’s comments reflect a broader sentiment within Turkey regarding regional dynamics. She argued that the agreements between Cyprus, Greece, Egypt, and Israel aim to prevent Turkish activities and diminish its influence in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Recalling Turkey’s deployment of the Oruc Reis research vessel in 2019, she defended it as a legitimate exercise of national sovereignty that shapes Turkey’s foreign policy. This vessel has previously been at the centre of disputes between Turkey and Cyprus over exclusive economic zones (EEZ).
In light of these tensions, Bohurler remarked on the transportation of Russian oil through the Black Sea and Aegean islands to the Mediterranean and Aegean, suggesting that regional developments are interconnected.
Following her remarks, opposition CHP member Yanki Bagcioglu pointed out that Turkey had not conducted any significant operations in critical Eastern Mediterranean areas since December 2020. He stressed the importance of resuming exploration and drilling activities to assert Turkey’s presence and protect national interests.
The Oruc Reis has been pivotal in Turkey’s energy ambitions and was last reported to have commenced new gas searches in the Eastern Mediterranean in 2022, reigniting debates over energy rights in the region. The evolving situation underscores the complexities of energy politics in the Eastern Mediterranean, with Cyprus and its allies taking steps that Turkey perceives as direct challenges to its interests.
