Libya Parliament Approves 2019 Maritime Border Deal With Türkiye
Libya's eastern parliament unanimously ratified a 2019 maritime border agreement with Türkiye, revoking previous resolutions that had rejected the deal and severed ties with Ankara.
The House of Representatives of Libya unanimously approved a 2019 maritime border agreement with Türkiye on October 20, 2026. In a significant policy reversal, the eastern-based parliament revoked two 2020 resolutions that had previously rejected the ratification of maritime and security memorandums and severed political ties with Ankara.
Originally signed by the western-based Government of National Accord, the deal establishes maritime jurisdictions in the Eastern Mediterranean. It grants Türkiye rights for hydrocarbon exploration in Libyan waters, supported by a memorandum between the Turkish Petroleum Corporation and Libya's National Oil Corporation for seismic surveys in offshore blocks.
Lawmakers stated the decision prioritizes Libya's national interest and strengthens its position as a strategic partner to major powers. The move cements Turkish regional influence and is expected to increase tensions with Greece, which competes for maritime rights in the region and has previously lobbied against the agreement.
