Mitsotakis urges Türkiye to abandon 1995 “Casus Belli” decision
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has called on Türkiye to withdraw its 1995 declaration that any extension of Greece’s territorial waters would be considered a casus belli (cause for war).
Speaking in a social media post following his participation in the UN General Assembly, Mitsotakis emphasized that dialogue—not military threats—is the only path to resolving disputes between the two countries.
“Thirty years have passed. It is time for Türkiye to withdraw its casus belli decision. The way forward is dialogue, not the language of weapons,” Mitsotakis said.
Background: The 1995 Declaration
In 1995, Türkiye enshrined in its constitution that any attempt by Greece to extend its territorial waters in the Aegean Sea would constitute a cause for war. The Greek prime minister is now urging Ankara to remove this clause.
Mitsotakis also highlighted Greece’s role as a pillar of stability in Southeast Europe and the Mediterranean, noting the country’s strategic importance as an energy hub for Europe and its attractiveness as an investment destination.
Peace Rhetoric Amid Military Buildup
While Athens insists it seeks peaceful coexistence and does not wish for military confrontation with Türkiye, it continues to strengthen its armed forces.
The Greek government is preparing to allocate nearly €15 billion to modernize its military, aiming to enhance deterrence against Türkiye. In addition, Greece has pursued defense agreements with Libya and Israel to bolster its position in the Eastern Mediterranean.
