Tensions rise as Turkey issues maritime research order near Kastellorizo

Tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean escalated on September 1, 2026, when Turkey issued a NAVTEX (0862/26) directing the research vessel R/V TUBITAK MARMARA to conduct scientific surveys in waters south and southwest of Kastellorizo until September 15. Greece responded immediately by issuing an anti-NAVTEX via the Heraklion station, asserting that the Turkish activity encroaches upon the Greek continental shelf and falls within a designated area under Greek maritime authority.

Simultaneously, diplomatic relations remain strained following reports that Turkey sent a diplomatic note to Athens protesting three Greek spatial planning initiatives announced in August regarding tourism, renewable energy, and industrial supply chains. According to the Turkish newspaper Milliyet, Ankara claims these initiatives constitute attempts to alter the status quo in the Aegean, labeling certain islets and rocky formations as disputed. The Turkish note reportedly warns that no activities deemed as creating "faits accomplis" will be permitted. As of early September, the situation remains a point of high geopolitical friction, with both nations maintaining conflicting claims over the maritime jurisdiction and the legal status of the surrounding geographical formations.