A new pipeline has set in motion a shift in alliances that has major implications for Europe and the world.
On January 2, Israel, Cyprus and Greece signed a deal to build a new natural gas pipeline, connecting gas reserves in Israeli and Cypriot waters to Greece. A later project is planned to connect Italy.
It’s a big deal. The $7 billion pipeline would supply 10 percent of Europe's natural gas needs.
But while the three countries have been negotiating, Turkey has been plotting the pipeline’s demise.
It has formed an alliance with one of the factions in Libya’s civil war to try and extend its territory and thwart the deal.
Turkey and the United Nations-backed Libyan Government of National Accord (GNA) signed an agreement on November 27 that sets the maritime boundaries between the two nations. The territory claimed by Libya cuts straight across the proposed pipeline route.
“In striking the deal with Libya, analysts say Ankara has essentially put both Greece and Cyprus on immediate watch, showing it is prepared to act tough to get its way and/or force new negotiations over their long-standing disputes,” wrote Reuters.
To cement the alliance, Turkey sent soldiers to Libya. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan confirmed their arrival on Sunday. Turkey also announced its plans to buy six new submarines, beefing up its ability to hold the territory it claims.
All this marks a big shift for the region.
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