Israel, Greece, Cyprus Reportedly Discuss Joint Rapid-Response Force Amid Eastern Mediterranean Tensions

Trilateral Discussions on Joint Force Emerge

Senior officials from Israel, Greece, and Cyprus are reportedly engaged in discussions regarding the establishment of a joint rapid-response military force. This initiative is primarily aimed at deterring Turkey's military and strategic activities in the Eastern Mediterranean and strengthening regional security cooperation. Reports from Greek media, including Ta Nea, indicate that these talks are in their preliminary stages, involving senior military officials and analysts from the three nations.

Proposed Structure and Operational Scope

The proposed joint force is envisioned as a brigade-level unit, comprising approximately 2,500 troops. Under the current concept, Israel and Greece would each contribute around 1,000 soldiers, while Cyprus would provide approximately 500 personnel. The force would integrate land, air, and naval components, with plans for one squadron each from the Israeli and Greek air forces, alongside naval assets tasked with protecting critical regional infrastructure. This unit would not be a permanent standing force but rather a 'flexible force that can be activated quickly when needed' for rapid deployment during crises across land, sea, or air. Operational bases and infrastructure in Israel, Cyprus, and the Greek islands of Rhodes and Karpathos are being considered for its deployment.

Geopolitical Context and Energy Interests

The discussions are taking place against a backdrop of heightened tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean, largely driven by Turkey's expanding military posture and its activities in disputed waters. Turkey's actions, including unilateral seismic surveys and drilling operations, as well as a controversial maritime boundary agreement with Libya, have been a source of concern for its neighbors. A key motivation for the proposed joint force is the protection of vital energy interests and infrastructure in the region, such as underwater pipelines and electricity interconnectors. Officials reportedly view the establishment of such a force, or even the discussions surrounding it, as a strategic message to Ankara.

Broader Cooperation and Official Responses

The potential military cooperation builds upon existing diplomatic frameworks. Israel, Greece, and Cyprus, along with the United States, are part of the '3+1' format, which fosters cooperation in areas including energy, economy, climate action, emergency preparedness, and counterterrorism in the Eastern Mediterranean. However, the Cypriot Defence Minister, Vasilis Palmas, stated that a joint task force was 'not under consideration' during his recent visit to Israel and that the issues reported in Greek media were not raised for discussion. Despite this, multiple reports continue to detail ongoing preliminary talks among military and government officials.