المستخلص: |
Since 2010, the significance of the Eastern Mediterranean came to the fore, as the US Geological screening body announced estimated quantities of gas and oil under the region, in addition to other mounts below the Egyptian Nile Delta. Constant exploration of investable wells next to the Palestinian, Cypriot and Lebanese coasts is underway, indicating hydrocarbon fertility. The present report sheds light on the repercussions of such gas and oil discoveries below the Eastern Mediterranean in connection with the Turkish- Greek/Cypriot conflict. Currently, it is one of the complicated and interactive conflict and leads to regional alliances in the region. The analysis is attempted to examine the reasons for the Turkish-Greek competition based on historical, legal and geopolitical factors, as well as expect scenarios of development in light of the accelerating international and regional conditions. It is concluded that the Turkish-Greek conflict in the Mediterranean revives outstanding border and nationalistic issues. Thus, it is more urgent to reach solutions, as the estimated power resources are huge, the energy crises seen by these countries are grave and the geostrategic value of such materials is high. On the other hand, due to the many players involved, their different interests and the geopolitical regional complications, any agreement suitable for all the parties to demarcate the boundaries may not be an easy matter. Accordingly, the current argument and show of power are not likely to continue, reach a comprehensive regional confrontation or, even, lead to trade sanctions against Ankara.
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