Eastern Mediterranean Sea Dispute: Exploring Sustainable Resolutions

The Eastern Mediterranean Sea is home to vast reserves of natural resources, including oil and gas, and is the subject of an ongoing dispute over maritime boundaries among Türkiye, Greece, Cyprus, Egypt, Israel, and Lebanon. This paper aims to examine the Eastern Mediterranean Sea dispute, focusing on the role of natural resources, particularly oil and gas. It analyzes the origins and evolution of the dispute, considering the involved stakeholders. The legal and political frameworks governing exclusive economic zones and continental shelf boundaries are explored, along with the competing claims of the parties. The paper argues that historical tensions, conflicting national interests, and a lack of trust contribute to the dispute, further exacerbated by resource competition. In light of these findings, the paper proposes sustainable solutions, such as diplomatic dialogue, a joint commission, development plans, and adherence to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea for dispute settlement.