Libyan parliament approves maritime memorandum with Turkey

On October 20, 2026, the Libyan House of Representatives unanimously approved the 2019 memorandum of understanding regarding the delimitation of maritime zones with Turkey. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan welcomed the decision as a positive development, while Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan characterized the move as an act of formal acceptance of a treaty already in effect, rather than a new ratification. The Turkish government views this development as a diplomatic success that reinforces its 'Blue Homeland' doctrine and strengthens its legal and political position in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Following the vote, Turkish officials dismissed criticisms from Greece and the European Union, labeling them as expected reactions from parties with strategic concerns. In response to the geopolitical tensions, the Turkish government has proposed initiating dialogue with Egypt and Italy to address lingering reservations regarding the agreement. Meanwhile, reports from Turkish media indicate that the ruling AKP party is preparing new legislation to codify the 'Blue Homeland' doctrine into domestic law, with a bill expected to reach the Turkish Grand National Assembly before the end of the year.