The eastern-based government of Libya has dismissed recent criticisms by Greece regarding a 2019 maritime agreement between Libya and Türkiye, asserting the deal’s legitimacy under international law.
In a statement on Saturday, Prime Minister Osama Hammad, who leads the Benghazi-based administration, reaffirmed that Libya’s cooperation with Türkiye is conducted within the framework of international legitimacy and does not infringe on any nation’s sovereignty. Hammad stressed Libya’s rejection of any external interference in its sovereign affairs, especially concerning international agreements made with strategic partners.
He warned Greece against continuing what he described as a provocative and escalating approach, saying Libya reserves the right to respond decisively to any threats against its territorial or political integrity. Libya’s maritime rights, he added, are non-negotiable and must be addressed only within recognized international legal frameworks.
The dispute intensified following recent comments by Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis questioning the validity of the Libya-Türkiye deal. The remarks have drawn strong condemnation from authorities in both eastern and western Libya.
Earlier this month, Libya’s Tripoli-based National Unity Government also issued a firm response after Greece announced hydrocarbon exploration tenders in disputed waters south of Crete. In a statement released on June 19, the government said Greece’s actions, published in the EU’s Official Journal on June 12, represent a clear breach of Libya’s sovereign rights.
Calling for respect for international law, the Tripoli government urged Athens to pursue constructive dialogue and fair negotiations to resolve maritime disputes through equitable and legal means.