The foreign ministers of Greece, Cyprus, and Israel have reinforced their trilateral strategic alliance, while sending clear diplomatic signals regarding Turkey’s role in the Eastern Mediterranean. The Athens meeting on Thursday focused on regional security, energy cooperation, and geopolitical alignment, underscoring Israel’s strong support for Cyprus against Turkey’s occupation of Northern Cyprus.
Israel Backs Cyprus, Condemns Turkish Influence
In a significant diplomatic statement, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar called Turkey’s 1974 invasion and continued occupation of Northern Cyprus “unacceptable” and rejected Ankara’s attempts to present itself as a stabilizing force in the region.
The timing of the meeting is critical, as Cypriot Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos prepares to travel to Geneva for informal talks on the Cyprus issue. Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis, who will also attend the talks, described the initiative as “an important step toward resolving the Cyprus issue.”
Kombos reaffirmed Cyprus’s commitment, stating:
“The Cypriot government is going to Geneva fully committed to achieving a positive outcome, which may concern the resumption of substantial negotiations.”
Reviving the “3+1” Framework with U.S. Support
The three ministers also expressed their intent to reactivate the “3+1” framework, which initially included the United States but lost momentum under President Biden.
Kombos emphasized the strategic importance of U.S. involvement, stating:
“We have a strong desire to revitalize the 3+1 format with the United States, working in step with the new administration and with the understanding that this expanded framework serves as a force multiplier for American regional architecture in the Eastern Mediterranean.”
Greek Foreign Minister Gerapetritis mentioned discussing the initiative with U.S. Senator Marco Rubio, receiving a “preliminarily positive response.”
Economic and Energy Cooperation Strengthened
The ministers also reviewed the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) initiative, stressing that their nations serve as the Mediterranean gateway for this major geoeconomic project.
“Together, we form the Mediterranean connecting link of the corridor through critical infrastructure, shipping, and skilled human resources,” Kombos stated.
Energy security was another key topic, with Gerapetritis confirming that the “Great Sea Interconnector”—a power link between Greece, Cyprus, and Israel—is proceeding as planned.
“We are ensuring that there will be no impediments to this project. Energy stability and security are of high importance for our region, Europe, and the world.”
Israeli Minister Criticizes Syria and Turkey’s Regional Role
Saar also reflected on the October 2023 regional events, emphasizing a “radical shift in the region’s dynamics.” He indicated that a potential return of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency could reshape policies in the Middle East.
On Syria, Saar accused the Assad regime of massacring Christians and warned Damascus about Turkey’s influence, alleging that Ankara has facilitated forces entering Lebanon to assist Hezbollah.
Outlook: Deepening Regional Cooperation
The trilateral alliance between Greece, Cyprus, and Israel continues to solidify in response to shared security concerns, economic interests, and energy cooperation. The revival of U.S. involvement in the region could further counterbalance Turkish influence and strengthen diplomatic efforts on the Cyprus issue.