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Are Gas Deposits in the Mediterranean Worth a War?

Greek island of Kastellorizo (Meis) view of the coast of Turkey
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Posted: August 3rd, 2020

By Norman T. Roule

Norman Roule is a geopolitical and energy consultant who served for 34 years in the Central Intelligence Agency, managing numerous programs relating to Iran and the Middle East. As NIM-I at ODNI, he was responsible for all aspects of national intelligence policy related to Iran, including IC engagement with senior policymakers in the National Security Council and the Department of State.

The discovery of large gas deposits has refueled decades-old territorial disputes in the Mediterranean.  In late July, Turkey announced it was dispatching a survey ship near a contested area around the Greek island of Kastellorizo, known as Meis in Turkey.  The announcement caused an international stir when both NATO allies put their militaries on alert.

As tensions have risen, improvements in exploration and extraction technology, coupled with growing international energy demands have driven riskier confrontations among Mediterranean neighbors.   

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