GREEK REPORTER - Turkey Challenges Greek Fishing Restrictions in Aegean Waters - By John Koutroumpis - April 22, 2026

 

GREEK  REPORTER

Turkey Challenges Greek Fishing Restrictions in Aegean Waters

ByJohn Koutroumpis

April 22, 2026

Turkey maintains that Greek fishing restrictions in parts of the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean beyond the country’s territorial waters are illegal. Credit: Wikimedia Commons / Krallis / CC BY SA 3

Turkey has spoken out against Greek fishing restrictions in parts of the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean beyond Greek territorial waters, saying the bans are unlawful—a move that has further escalated tensions over maritime jurisdiction.

In a statement, Turkey’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said maps published on the website of Greece’s Fisheries Control Directorate show fishing bans in areas where, according to Ankara, Greece has no legal authority. The Ministry argued that the restrictions violate international law.

Turkey calls Greek maps “invalid”

The Turkish Foreign Ministry described the maps as invalid, saying they create what it called imaginary maritime boundaries between the two countries in areas where no official delimitation exists. It also said the maps violate Turkish maritime jurisdiction.

According to the ministry, restrictions imposed by Greece on fishing activity beyond its six-nautical-mile territorial waters, including in what Turkey considers international waters, have no legal standing for Ankara. “The illegal restrictions imposed by Greece on fishing activities beyond its six-nautical-mile territorial waters, in areas where it has no jurisdiction and in international waters, are…invalid for Turkey,” the statement said.

Turkey warns against unilateral action

Ankara said it would not accept what it called unilateral and unlawful moves targeting the lawful activities of Turkish fishermen. The Ministry added that Turkey bases its position on international law and what it described as historical rights.

At the same time, Turkey reiterated its support for what it called a sincere and comprehensive approach to resolving disputes, based on international law, equality, and good neighborly relations. It also referenced the Athens Declaration on Friendly Relations and Good Neighborliness, signed on December 7, 2023.

Turkey’s response to Greek fishing restrictions raises concerns

Greek authorities have reportedly been expecting an increase in violations and provocative actions, particularly involving Turkish fishing vessels.

In the past, such vessels have entered Greek territorial waters in parts of the Aegean, raising concerns in Athens over a fresh cycle of friction at sea.