Tensions flared in the Eastern Mediterranean this afternoon as a Turkish corvette harassed two research vessels operating approximately 7 nautical miles north of Crete.
The vessels, identified as the “NG WORKER” and “IEVOLI RELUME,” were conducting research related to the Crete-Cyprus electrical interconnection project when the Turkish warship challenged their presence via radio.
The Turkish corvette claimed the research vessels were operating outside of Greek jurisdiction and ordered them to leave the area. A Hellenic Navy frigate is reportedly monitoring the situation. The Turkish intervention occurred immediately after the research vessels exited Greek territorial waters.
A NAVTEX announcing “submarine cable works” had been previously issued by the Heraklion station of the Hellenic Navy’s Hydrographic Service. This latest incident marks another escalation in ongoing maritime disputes between Greece and Turkey.