**Title: Cyprus-Lebanon Undersea Cable Project Faces Turkish Approval Hurdle**
A proposed undersea electricity interconnection cable linking Cyprus and Lebanon has encountered a significant obstacle, as Turkish Cypriot ‘energy minister’ Hasan Tacoy stated that the project cannot proceed without permission from Turkey. This assertion was made during an interview with the Cyprus Mail on Wednesday.
Tacoy emphasized that any nautical activities, including research, surveys, or the laying of cables in what Turkey refers to as its "Blue Homeland," require the approval of the Republic of Turkey. He stated, “If there are plans for nautical activities... nothing can go ahead without the Republic of Turkey having the final say.” This position underscores Turkey's ongoing claims over certain maritime areas in the eastern Mediterranean.
The Turkish Cypriot official explained that the initiation of such activities necessitates the publication of a navigational telex (navtex), a maritime safety message used to inform seafarers of potential hazards or ongoing operations. He noted that in Turkish territorial waters, it is Turkey that issues these notifications, similar to how Notams (Notices to Airmen) are managed in Turkish airspace.
Tacoy's comments reflect a broader context of maritime disputes in the region. He referenced previous incidents, particularly involving the Great Sea Interconnector project, where Turkish naval forces were deployed to assert sovereignty over what Turkey claims as its waters. In 2024, Turkish naval vessels were dispatched after the Italian research vessel Ievoli Reulme entered waters Turkey considers its own while conducting seabed surveys between Cyprus and Crete. This incident prompted Greece to send its naval vessels, including frigates, to the area, highlighting the tense maritime dynamics between Turkey and Greece.
The underlying dispute regarding maritime boundaries stems from differing interpretations of international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Greece and Cyprus argue that islands generate their own exclusive economic zones (EEZ), a stance supported by UNCLOS. Conversely, Turkey, which is not a signatory to UNCLOS, contends that islands do not have this right, asserting claims based on its "Blue Homeland" doctrine, which extends its claims beyond the 12 nautical miles of territorial waters it believes both Cyprus and Greece are entitled to.
The implications of Tacoy's statement could significantly affect the timeline and feasibility of the electricity interconnection project between Cyprus and Lebanon, as navigating the complex geopolitical landscape in the eastern Mediterranean remains fraught with challenges. The need for Turkish approval may complicate negotiations and planning efforts for the undersea cable, which is seen as a critical infrastructure project for energy security in the region.
As discussions continue, stakeholders from Cyprus, Lebanon, and Turkey will need to engage in dialogue to address these maritime disputes and seek a resolution that allows for the advancement of energy projects while respecting national claims and sovereignty.