Israel, Cyprus, Greece conduct naval exercise amid tensions with Turkey

Mar 12, 2021

Israel’s navy conducted a joint exercise with Cyprus, Greece and France in the eastern Mediterranean this week as the countries continue to bolster defense cooperation amid ongoing tensions with Turkey.

Exercise Noble Dina was led by the Israeli navy off Cyprus’ west coast, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said. The exercise, which ended Thursday, included “anti-submarine procedures, search-and-rescue scenarios and a scenario simulating battle between ships,” the IDF said. Israeli Dolphin-II class submarines also participated in the exercise.

The drills build on increased defense cooperation between the four countries in the eastern Mediterranean since Turkey has become increasingly assertive in the region in recent years.

Disputes over hydrocarbon rights in the eastern Mediterranean have drawn together governments seeking to limit Turkey’s claims, including France and the United Arab Emirates — which also oppose Turkey’s ambitions in Libya.

Amid bitter tensions last year, a Greek frigate rammed a Turkish naval vessel that was escorting a Turkish seismic research vessel in waters claimed by Athens. Tensions have continued despite talks. Israel, Egypt, France and the UAE openly backed Greece last summer amid the dispute.