Benghazi, June 20, 2025
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Libyan Government has issued a strong statement denouncing a recent move by the Greek government to launch an international tender for hydrocarbon exploration and exploitation in the Mediterranean, specifically in areas south of Crete that Libya confirms are subject to an unresolved maritime dispute.
Published in the Official Journal of the European Union on June 12, 2025 (issue C1202513335), the Greek announcement prompted a swift and assertive response from the Libyan authorities. The ministry expressed “deep astonishment and concern” over what it described as an attempt to authorize resource extraction in zones that partially fall within maritime areas claimed by Libya.
In its statement, the Libyan government reaffirmed its “inherent and inalienable right” to explore and utilize hydrocarbon resources in its internationally recognized maritime zones, citing the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) as the guiding legal framework.
The ministry warned that any exploration or exploitation in the disputed zones, without Libya’s explicit consent, would be considered “illegal and hostile acts” with full legal consequences under international law. It further characterized Greece’s actions as escalatory and detrimental to regional stability, warning that such steps could “hinder efforts aimed at achieving stability and international cooperation based on mutual respect.”
Libya called on the Greek government to:
- Immediately halt all procedures related to the hydrocarbon tenders in areas that may fall under Libyan sovereignty;
- Avoid any unilateral actions that may infringe on Libya’s rights;
- Enter into serious and constructive dialogue with Libya to reach equitable solutions;
- Acknowledge Libya’s right to take necessary legal measures to protect its sovereignty and natural wealth.
The statement concluded with a firm reiteration that Libya “will not compromise the wealth of the Libyan people and future generations,” pledging to use all legal means to safeguard its resources while maintaining its commitment to international law.
