Turkish newspapers and television commentators have intensified criticism of Greece, framing recent statements by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan as a message directed at Athens. Coverage in pro-government outlets has revived longstanding disputes over the 12-nautical-mile territorial limit, the demilitarisation of Greek islands, and Greece's defence cooperation with Israel. On television panels, some commentators went further, suggesting that a Greek-Turkish conflict could see Greece lose control of islands in the Eastern Aegean.
Newspapers highlight message to Greece
The newspaper Türkiye described Erdoğan's latest statements as carrying "clear messages to Greece," according to Turkish press coverage. The newspaper Yeni Şafak returned to three recurring themes in the bilateral dispute: the 12-nautical-mile limit, the demilitarisation of the islands, and defence cooperation between Greece and Israel.
Television commentary turns confrontational
Turkish television panels featured particularly sharp remarks. Turkish journalist Nedim Şener, referring to Kastellorizo, argued that Ankara's message was that "if I reach out my hand, I am there." On a separate television programme, a Turkish analyst claimed that in the event of a Greek-Turkish conflict, "the whole of the Eastern Aegean islands could slip out of Greece's hands," naming Kastellorizo, the Dodecanese and the islands of the Eastern Aegean.
Pro-government press links statements to wider disputes
Turkey's pro-government commentary has connected Erdoğan's statements, made following a Cabinet meeting, to the ongoing debate over the 12-mile limit, the concept of casus belli, and the demilitarisation of the Greek islands.
