Tensions rise over Great Sea Interconnector surveys in the Eastern Mediterranean

Cyprus and Greece have initiated undersea surveys for the Great Sea Interconnector (GSI) and the East to Med Corridor (EMC) fiber optic cable project. Between November 2 and November 15, the research vessel Kobi Ruegg is surveying within the Cypriot Exclusive Economic Zone, while the Abeille Marengo is operating in Greek and Cypriot waters under a mandate valid from November 6, 2026, to March 6, 2027. These operations aim to map the seabed for power and communication infrastructure connecting Europe to Asia.

Turkey has responded by issuing anti-NAVTEX messages, declaring the surveys unauthorized and claiming the vessels are operating within the Turkish continental shelf as defined in its 2020 UN filings. The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that it has cancelled the Greek and Cypriot navigational notices and insists that any such research requires prior Turkish consent. In contrast, Greek diplomatic sources affirmed that the surveys will proceed according to original plans, emphasizing that international maritime law is clear and permits these actions. Reports indicate that Turkish drones have been observed operating in the vicinity of the project path near Karpathos, reflecting the ongoing diplomatic friction and the contested nature of the maritime jurisdictions in the region.