In recent years, the eastern Mediterranean region has witnessed the re-emergence of historical maritime disputes. Increasing competition and conflicts have contributed the return of instability to this strategic European region.
Tensions have arisen in the eastern Mediterranean area due to multi-domain challenges.
The principal risk is maritime territorialization in order to achieve control of resources and sea lines of communication.The region is also the historic crossroads of eastern and western civilizations, where Europe, Africa and Asia converge and where Judaism, Islam and Christianity trace their ancient origins.
This area is vital for European economy. Through the Suez Canal, the Eastern Med is the liaison matrix between Indian and Atlantic oceans. Recent offshore gas resources have been discovered within the region, implying Economic Exclusive Zone (EEZ) disputes between coastal nations for future exploitation.
From a military perspective, the area is characterized by Anti-Access Area Denial (A2/AD) strategies and a high concentration of military vessels.
European security is closely linked to the security situation in the Eastern Mediterranean
As a result of the previously cited challenges, the eastern Mediterranean represents a major security concern for Europe. Tensions are ongoing in the maritime domain across the region. The Israel-Hamas conflict is destabilizing the entire region, in particular the security of vessels crossing the Red Sea and Bab el Mandeb strait. This is directly affecting European supply lines. Direct confrontation within the Mediterranean itself could lead to even more serious consequences for Europe. This comes in addition to the ongoing war in eastern Europe between Russia and Ukraine and the issue of migrations across the Mediterranean into southern Europe.
Thanks to freedom of navigation within the high seas, naval assets are well fitted to scrutinize activities within the area, and enhance readiness to intervene if necessary.
Navies permanently deploy their naval assets to scrutinize the situation and enhance European readiness and defence. Periodically, the US and French carrier strike groups operate in the Eastern Mediterranean sea for defence and deterrence activities, or for direct intervention. Interoperability within European and NATO navies is an important aspect of these missions.
