Turkish Foreign Minister Minister Hakan Fidan speaks during a press conference in Ankara, on April 9, 2026. [EPA]
Turkey is pursuing a dual objective in recent days, highlighting the close relationship between Greece, the Republic of Cyprus and Israel. More specifically, Ankara, first, seeks to satisfy persistent domestic political narratives about an attempted encirclement of Turkey by rival states. Second, it aims to portray Athens as aligned with Benjamin Netanyahu, who is increasingly viewed by European governments across the political spectrum as an obstacle to Middle East peace.
Ankara appears to understand European Union dynamics and is investing in them, while maintaining a hard line against Netanyahu’s government, regardless of Greece’s stance. Recent remarks by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan offered little new – aside from references to Greek military deployments on Aegean islands – which Athens does not view as concerning.
Greek officials had anticipated growing political pressure from Europe to distance themselves from Israeli policy as regional conflict continues, particularly involving Iran and operations in Lebanon. As a result, decisions on defense procurements from Israel were accelerated.
At the same time, Ankara revived its positions on Greece’s muslim minority in the Thrace minority through a foreign ministry post marking the anniversary of the “Turkish Union of Xanthi,” expressing support for its “struggle” within the framework of European Court of Human Rights decisions.
Greece responded by citing the Treaty of Lausanne, stressing the minority’s religious character and affirming full respect for rights, equality and legal protections.
Meanwhile, eight violations of Greek national airspace by Turkish UAVs and a CN-235 aircraft were recorded on Tuesday in the northeastern and southeastern Aegean, despite limited Turkish military activity following recent exercises and ongoing confidence-building contacts between the two sides. The incidents occurred during a relatively quiet operational period, underscoring lingering tensions despite diplomatic engagement mechanisms remaining in place between Athens and Ankara.