Greece harasses Turkish F-16 jets over Eastern Mediterranean

Turkish warplanes were taking part in NATO mission when incident occurred, and necessary response was given to Greece, say Turkish National Defense Ministry sources

By Cemil Murat Budak

ANKARA (AA) - Turkish planes carrying out NATO missions over the Eastern Mediterranean were harassed by Greek F-16s, Turkish National Defense Ministry sources said on Tuesday.

The harassment by Greece is an attempt to target NATO activities, said the sources, requesting anonymity due to restrictions on speaking to the media, adding that Greece does not hesitate to risk even NATO missions in order to harass Türkiye.

Just after Greece put its radar lock on Turkish warplanes, the necessary response was reportedly given.

The issue was also conveyed to NATO authorities by the Turkish National Defense Ministry, and the Greek military attache was summoned to the ministry.

The Turkish Foreign Ministry also made diplomatic initiatives with relevant parties regarding the issue.

Türkiye has complained of repeated provocative actions and rhetoric by Greece in the region in recent months, saying such moves frustrate its good faith efforts for peace.

Stressing that such harassment is incompatible with a NATO ally, the sources added that Greece is seeking to raise tensions in the region.

Kaynak: