Ankara, April 14, 2025 — The absence of a Greek NAVTEX announcement for the planned Greece-Israel-Cyprus electricity interconnection cable has sparked a wave of triumphalism in Turkish media, with outlets portraying the delay as evidence of Turkey’s growing influence in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean.
Pro-government newspaper Turkiye ran consecutive articles claiming that Ankara’s response effectively stalled the project. Citing “security sources” and “revealing reports,” the outlet argued that Turkey’s “warnings” forced Greece and Cyprus into a defensive posture. One headline boldly stated, “Greece Hits Hard Brake! Energy Project Suspended After Turkey’s Reaction,” attributing the postponement to Ankara’s “silent yet effective interventions” and “geopolitical pressure.” The article further accused Greece of violating Turkey’s continental shelf, a recurring claim in Turkish rhetoric.
Similarly, nationalist newspaper Türkgün celebrated the development under the headline “Ankara Warned Athens: They Backed Down.” The piece highlighted Greece’s alleged “second postponement” of the cable-laying plan, framing it as a retreat driven by fear of Turkish backlash. Across these reports, the term “retreat” anchors a broader narrative of “Turkish deterrence,” with media outlets emphasizing Ankara’s ability to influence regional rivals without issuing official statements.
The Turkish press also touched on the European dimension of the issue, noting Cyprus President Nicos Christodoulides’ efforts to rally support from Brussels. However, the focus remained on Greece’s perceived inaction, which Turkish media portrayed as a sign of weakness.
As the cable remains uninstalled, Turkish outlets continue to seize on the delay, presenting it as proof of Ankara’s resolve and strategic dominance in the region.