Interparliamentary Meeting Addresses Regional Instability
Lawmakers from Cyprus, Greece, Israel, and the United States recently gathered in Jerusalem for an interparliamentary meeting, organized by the Knesset in cooperation with the Middle East Forum, where they issued a stark warning regarding Turkey's escalating role as a primary source of regional instability in the Eastern Mediterranean. The meeting, held on February 10 or 11, 2026, underscored the critical need for enhanced cooperation among democratic allies in the region.
During the discussions, participants emphasized the importance of the 3+1 framework, comprising Cyprus, Greece, Israel, and the United States, as a vital platform for bolstering security, fostering cooperation, and establishing long-term partnerships in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Concerns Over Turkey's Shifting Geopolitical Stance
Lawmakers articulated several key concerns regarding Turkey's actions and evolving geopolitical trajectory. Harris Georgiades, Chair of the Foreign and European Affairs Committee of the House of Representatives of Cyprus, stated that Turkey has undergone a profound transformation over the past two decades, with its secular and Western orientation giving way to a blend of authoritarianism, Islamism, and nationalism. He asserted that Turkey can no longer be considered a stable and reliable partner.
Israeli Knesset member Ohad Tal, co-chair of the Knesset Caucus for the Eastern Mediterranean Alliance, highlighted a perceived shift in regional dynamics, noting the weakening of the Iranian Shi'ite axis and its replacement by a Sunni Muslim Brotherhood axis. Tal warned that Turkey is positioning itself as the chief patron of radical Islamist movements, including hosting Hamas leaders, providing political legitimacy and diplomatic cover, and seeking influence in Gaza. Furthermore, Turkey is reportedly expanding its military and political footprint across various regions, including Syria, Iraq, Libya, Egypt, the Eastern Mediterranean, and the Horn of Africa.
US Congressman Randy Fine echoed these sentiments, stating that Turkey has 'gone off the reservation' with its rhetoric concerning Gaza, influence in Syria, and activities elsewhere.
Maritime Disputes and Energy Tensions
A significant point of contention raised by the lawmakers involved Turkey's assertive stance in maritime affairs and energy exploration. Concerns include:
- Turkey's aggressive maritime claims under the 'Blue Homeland' doctrine.
- Claims over natural gas deposits near Cyprus.
- A maritime agreement with Libya's provisional government, which is seen as defying international law.
- Objections to the Great Sea Interconnector, an electricity interconnector project between Greece, Cyprus, and Israel, with reports of Turkish warships being sent to block survey work.
- Turkey's continued military presence in Cyprus.
US Congressman Brad Schneider, who chairs the Congressional Hellenic-Israel Alliance, emphasized the need for clarity regarding regional partners and adversaries. He also highlighted his leadership in the 'Gateway Act' legislation, aimed at fostering cooperation with countries like Israel, Cyprus, and Greece within the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). US lawmakers have also introduced amendments to the annual defense policy bill to scrutinize Turkey's behavior, including potentially barring US arms sales until Ankara ceases violations of Greek and Cypriot sovereignty.
Calls for Enhanced Regional Cooperation
The participating lawmakers underscored the strategic importance of strengthening cooperation within the 3+1 framework. MK Alon Schuster, co-chair of the Knesset Caucus, noted that this partnership extends beyond a security alliance, offering an opportunity to build regional civilian resilience in areas such as energy, water, agriculture, and innovation. Gregg Roman, CEO of the Middle East Forum, stressed the importance of these collaborative efforts, stating that 'these are images that need to be seen in Turkey, Iran, and Russia.'
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