U.S. reaffirms support for Great Sea Interconnector energy project

On October 14, 2026, Cypriot Defense Minister Vasilis Palmas confirmed that the United States government maintains its support for the Great Sea Interconnector (GSI). This high-voltage power transmission project aims to link the electrical grids of Israel, Cyprus, and Greece. The affirmation of support was delivered by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio during his recent visit to Greece, as disclosed by Minister Palmas to the Jewish News Syndicate on October 15.

Minister Palmas highlighted that the project holds critical strategic importance for both the Republic of Cyprus and the wider Eastern Mediterranean region. By integrating the region into the European energy market, the interconnector is expected to end Cyprus's energy isolation, which remains a unique challenge for the island as the only European Union member state without an electrical connection. The project aims to bolster overall energy security and regional stability.

Despite previous challenges and implementation delays, the combination of U.S. political backing and French financial involvement provides a renewed outlook for the project's progress. The Independent Power Transmission Operator (ADMIE) continues to oversee the development of the electrical connection, with Cyprus reiterating its commitment to the project while emphasizing respect for the sovereign rights of all involved states.