Aegean tensions have flared following Türkiye’s warning that Greece’s proposal to establish a drone base on Rhodes violates international demilitarization agreements and threatens regional stability.
“The demilitarized status of Rhodes Island is clearly and bindingly regulated by international treaties. Any attempt to violate this status is incompatible with Greece’s obligations under international law,” Defense Ministry sources told reporters at a weekly briefing on Aug. 27.
The legal status of the Aegean islands with non-military status is regulated by the 1923 Lausanne and 1947 Paris Peace Treaties. Türkiye has long been criticizing Greece for pursuing an aggressive armament campaign on these islands and calling on Athens to cease arming these islands.
“In this context, it is clear that any potential step toward establishing a drone base on Rhodes would constitute a violation of the island’s non-military status and would harm peace and stability in the Aegean, as well as good neighborly relations,” the sources said.
According to Greek media, the Greek Defense Ministry is planning to create a permanent base on Rhodes, where it will deploy V-BAT unmanned aircraft as part of its plan to upgrade its defense infrastructure in the Aegean.
“Türkiye will continue to resolutely protect its rights and interests stemming from international treaties and take the necessary measures accordingly,” the Turkish sources said.
HH Patriot system to be relocated to Crete
In the meantime, Turkish defense sources also commented on the recent Greek decision to relocate Patriot air defense systems from Karpathos to Crete.
“In this context, we consider the decision to relocate the Patriot Air Defense Systems from Karpathos Island to Crete as a positive step towards reversing the current erroneous practice,” the sources said.
Greece deployed Patriot systems to Karpathos to protect the country from potential Iranian missiles during the war between U.S.-Israel and Iran. Karpathos is one of the Greek islands with non-military status and Patriot deployment was criticized by Türkiye.
Athens has now decided to relocate it to Crete, where it hosts a major naval base also used by the American Navy.
“As Türkiye, we will continue to support all constructive steps that contribute to strengthening peace and stability in our region and that comply with international law and obligations arising from treaties,” the Turkish sources said.
Türkiye and Greece signed the Athens Declaration in late 2023 to avoid confrontation over unresolved problems stemming from the Aegean Sea.
