Libya reacts to Greece’s hydrocarbon tender south of Crete: “Violation of sovereign rights”
The Libyan Government of National Unity (GNU) has strongly objected to Greece’s recent hydrocarbon exploration tender in the disputed waters south of the island of Crete, calling it a violation of Libya’s sovereign rights and urging Athens to engage in constructive dialogue based on international law.
In a written statement, the Libyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed deep concern over Greece’s announcement published on June 12 in the Official Journal of the European Union, regarding plans to offer exploration and exploitation rights in maritime areas that Libya considers disputed territory.
The statement emphasized that such steps constitute “a clear violation of Libya’s sovereign rights” and warned against any drilling or exploration activity without a preliminary legal framework agreed upon under international law.
Calling for respect for legal norms and equitable solutions, the ministry urged the Greek authorities to respond to Libya’s objections with a sense of responsibility, especially in light of the deep-rooted historical ties between the two nations.
The Libyan statement concluded with a call on Greece to pursue constructive negotiations that take into account the interests of all parties and are rooted in fairness and legal principles.
This latest development comes amid ongoing tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean over maritime boundaries and energy resources, where several regional actors, including Turkey, Greece, Egypt, and Libya, have overlapping claims.
