Tension between Libya and Greece over Oil Exploration South of Crete

In an escalating diplomatic move, the Libyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, affiliated with the parliament-appointed government, summoned the Greek Consul General in Benghazi, 'Agapios Kalogonomis,' in official protest against a Greek project to explore for oil in a disputed maritime area south of resource-rich Crete.

This comes after Athens announced an international tender to obtain permits for hydrocarbon exploration in that region, which Libya insists is part of its exclusive economic zone, causing significant tension between the two countries.

The Libyan Foreign Ministry affirmed its firm rejection of any unilateral actions that may infringe on Libya's sovereign rights, urging the Greek side to clarify its position and return to legal dialogue in accordance with international law and good neighborly principles.

Meanwhile, the Government of National Unity in Tripoli expressed its dismay over Greek actions, emphasizing that any exploratory or drilling activities in these areas must be carried out after prior legal agreement, warning that these steps constitute a clear violation of Libyan sovereignty.

Relations between Libya and Athens have been tense since the Government of National Unity signed agreements with Turkey in 2022 allowing it to explore for oil and gas in the eastern Mediterranean, including maritime areas near Crete, which Greece considers an unlawful encroachment on its sovereignty.