Description: The Libyan Parliament under warlord Khalifa Haftar, approved the maritime agreement concluded with Turkey in 2019 for enhancing trade, economic and security cooperation. The so – called Mediterranean agreement stipulates on increased trade exchange between Turkey and Libya while also enhancing military cooperation across the Mediterranean sea. Turkey and Libya’s Haftar – led government signed multiple economic cooperation agreements during 2025 including an offshore oil exploration agreement in Libya’s EEZ (Exclusive Economic Zone). The agreement was condemned by Cyprus, Greece, Egypt and Israel which have their own economic plans and cooperations projects that intersect with the Turkey – Libya plan. The deal was also supported by Libya’s internationally recognized government.
Impact: Turkey and Libya’s maritime cooperation agreement is highly likely a counterbalance towards the linkage between Israel, Cyprus and Greece on a regional level. The agreement likely escalates direct tensions between Turkey and Greece and Turkey and Israel which are focused on developing the Great Sea Interconnector undersea cable project. Under the agreement, Turkey likely gains significant maritime presence in a security and economic sense in Libya’s EEZ, while Libya gains a guaranteed partner, providing security, stable basis for political capital on the international stage and a long – term strategic partner.