What the extension of territorial waters to 12 nautical miles means for Greece
The issue of extending Greece's territorial waters from 6 to 12 nautical miles is one of the most significant topics in the country's foreign policy. According to the International Law of the Sea, every state has the right to extend its sovereignty at sea up to this distance, a fact that would significantly change the map of the Aegean and the Mediterranean.
In practice, an extension to 12 miles means that Greece would have full sovereignty over a larger maritime area. This includes control over airspace, natural resources, and navigation within these limits. It is important to clarify that territorial waters are different from the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), which primarily concerns the rights to exploit the seabed and subsea resources.
Turkey strongly opposes this possibility, arguing that such a move would limit its own capabilities at sea and hinder the free movement of its vessels. Ankara has stated in the past that the extension of Greek territorial waters in the Aegean constitutes a "cause for war" (casus belli), causing tension in bilateral relations between the two countries.
The discussion regarding the extension of territorial waters, especially south of Crete, remains at the center of Greek strategy. Experts emphasize that Greece is exercising its legal rights, based on international treaties that most countries in the world have signed.
In conclusion, the issue of the 12 miles remains a complex matter that combines international law with the geopolitical security of the region. The Greek government maintains the right to proceed with this move whenever it deems the time is right, always seeking stability in the wider region.