Getting Crowded

摘要

As tensions over natural resources increase in the Eastern Mediterranean, MR offers an overview of the key role of the Turkish Naval forces in protecting national interests, as well as the strength of the other major fleet present in the area. The discovery of rich oil and natural gas reserves in the Eastern Mediterranean, once seen as a catalyst for peace, stability and cooperation in the region, has in time turned into a source of tension and conflict. The reality is that greater resources mean more disputes. Rising tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean could have a destabilising effect on the region. Disputes about the demarcation of Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) and exploration rights of offshore natural gas fields are causing tensions to rise dangerously between the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), the Republic of Cyprus (Cyprus hereinafter to distinguish from TRNC), Turkey, Greece, Egypt, Israel and Lebanon. The overriding international concern is that war could erupt if a solution is not found.