Greece, Israel and Cyprus finalized a pact this week to significantly expand joint military exercises in the eastern Mediterranean starting in 2026, solidifying a strategic partnership that has drawn the wary gaze of neighboring Turkey.
Senior military officials signed the joint action plan in Cyprus, following a pivotal summit in Jerusalem earlier this month between Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The agreement includes intensified naval and air drills and the transfer of Israeli expertise to counter “asymmetric” threats like drones.
A senior official confirmed the nations will ramp up coordination following the ceasefire in Gaza, with Athens also joining Israel’s upcoming Noble Dina naval exercise.
The pact underpins the "Achilles’ Shield," a planned €3 billion ($3.3 billion) multilayered air defense system Athens is negotiating with Israel.
It also follows the Greek parliament's recent approval of 36 Israeli-made PULS rocket systems intended to fortify the country's northeastern border.
While Mr. Mitsotakis touts the alliance as a pillar of regional stability, it faces domestic pushback. Cyprus’ left-wing AKEL party accused Mr. Christodoulides of entangling the island in regional conflicts without fully weighing the risks.
Meanwhile, Turkey continues to monitor the evolving alliance closely amid long-standing disputes over maritime boundaries and energy rights.