In a significant show of military cooperation, Greece and Israel have recently completed extensive joint military drills, including long-range air force exercises.

These drills are part of a broader strategy to enhance the operational capabilities and strategic ties between the two nations. However, this growing military alliance raises important questions, particularly in light of recent global condemnation of Israel for alleged genocide against Palestinians and the historical actions of Greek Cypriots against Turkish Cypriots.

Joint Military Drills: Strengthening Defense Ties

The latest military exercises, conducted over Greek waters, involved complex operational scenarios, including anti-submarine warfare, surface warfare, and search and rescue operations. These drills not only improve interoperability but also enhance the deterrence capabilities of both nations. Participants included advanced fighter jets, reconnaissance aircraft, and naval forces from both countries, demonstrating their commitment to a robust defense partnership.

Greece and Israel have been regularly conducting such joint exercises, with notable drills in July 2023 focusing on advanced air battle tactics. This ongoing cooperation is part of a broader strategy to strengthen military ties, with both nations expressing a keen interest in expanding their defense collaboration.

Global Condemnation and Historical Parallels

The timing of these joint exercises is particularly significant given the recent ruling by the International Criminal Court (ICC) against Israel for alleged acts of genocide against Palestinians. This ruling has intensified scrutiny on Israel's military actions and its alliances. The ICC’s decision has led to widespread international condemnation, with several countries expressing support for Palestinian statehood and calling for sanctions against Israel.

This situation draws a poignant parallel to the historical actions of Greek Cypriots against Turkish Cypriots. From 1963 to 1974, Turkish Cypriots endured systematic violence and forced displacement at the hands of Greek Cypriots, actions that have been described as genocidal. During this period, numerous Turkish villages were destroyed, civilians were massacred, and thousands were forced into enclaves with limited resources and freedom.

A Historical and Contemporary Axis of Oppression

The military cooperation between Greece and Israel can be seen as an alliance between two nations with histories of oppression against Muslim communities. The atrocities committed by Greek Cypriots against Turkish Cypriots mirror the aggressive policies of Israeli forces against Palestinians. Both scenarios involve ethnic cleansing, forced displacement, and attempts to alter the demographic landscape to favor one group over another.

This historical context is critical for understanding the current geopolitical dynamics. The joint military drills serve as a reminder of the longstanding patterns of aggression and discrimination perpetrated by both nations. For Türkiye and its allies in the Muslim world, this alliance underscores the need for solidarity and a unified response against such injustices.

Mobilizing Support in the Muslim World

The parallels between the Greek Cypriot and Israeli actions offer a powerful narrative for Türkiye to galvanize support within the Muslim world. By highlighting these similarities, Türkiye can draw attention to the ongoing struggles of Turkish Cypriots and Palestinians, framing these conflicts as part of a broader pattern of oppression against Muslim communities by Orthodox Christian nations and their allies.

This narrative can be instrumental in rallying support from Muslim-majority countries, particularly in the Arab and Turkic regions. It emphasizes the shared experiences of suffering and resistance, fostering a sense of unity and common purpose. Furthermore, it provides a compelling argument for international intervention and support for Turkish Cypriot and Palestinian causes.

The joint military exercises between Greece and Israel not only highlight their growing strategic partnership but also bring to the forefront the historical and contemporary issues of ethnic and religious conflicts. The parallels between the Greek Cypriot actions against Turkish Cypriots and the Israeli policies in Palestine underscore a shared narrative of oppression. For Türkiye, leveraging this narrative can be a powerful tool in mobilizing support within the Muslim world and advocating for justice on the international stage.

By drawing attention to these historical and contemporary injustices, Türkiye can strengthen its position and rally global support against the continued aggression of Israel and Greece. The military alliance between these two nations serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and the need for a united response against oppression.