The Impact of Türkiye and Israel’s Rapprochement on the Maritime Delimitation Dispute in the Eastern Mediterranean

Abstract

Türkiye and Israel relations have recently improved with ambassadors’ mutual appointment to the respective countries. This recent rapprochement between the two essential states of the Middle East also influences the ongoing political disputes in the seas of this region. As is well known, Türkiye, Greece, and Cyprus (North and South) have been in conflict regarding the delimitation of maritime borders in the Eastern Mediterranean. In this conflict, Greece and Southern Cyprus have developed strong alliances with western countries, the most important ones being the U.S. and the EU. The recent rapprochement between Türkiye and Israel may change the game in the region and improve Türkiye’s hand with regard to the Eastern Mediterranean dispute.