Greece’s New Maritime Map Sparks Diplomatic Tensions with Turkey

Greece’s Maritime Claims
Athens argues that, under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), even the smallest islands are entitled to full maritime zones. Based on this framework, Greece claims that Kastellorizo allows it to extend its maritime jurisdiction by 40,000 square kilometers.

 

Turkey’s Response: “Maximalist and Irrational” Claims
Türkiye has condemned Greece’s claims as "maximalist and irrational," asserting that maritime boundaries should be determined based on equity principles rather than strict distance rules. Turkish officials argue that islands far from their mainland but extremely close to another country’s coast should be subject to a different legal interpretation to maintain regional stability.

International Concerns and Germany’s Reaction
Greece’s expansive maritime claims have sparked concerns not only in Türkiye but also in Germany and other European nations. Diplomatic sources suggest that Athens’ approach could escalate tensions in the region and further complicate territorial disputes in the Aegean.