Turkey sets new rules of engagement in Mediterranean showdown with Israel, Cyprus

Turkey sets new rules of engagement in Mediterranean showdown with Israel, Cyprus

Special to WorldTribune.com ANKARA — Turkey has been preparing for a naval confrontation with Greece and Israel in the Mediterranean Sea. Officials said the Turkish Navy has been authorized to stop foreign energy exploration and development in the eastern Mediterranean. They said the navy would operate under new rules of engagement that would protect Ankara’s […]

Cyprus, key base for NATO, signals it won’t play major role in Syrian campaign

Cyprus, key base for NATO, signals it won’t play major role in Syrian campaign

Special to WorldTribune.com NICOSIA — The Republic of Cyprus does not envision playing a major role in any NATO air campaign against Syria. A senior Cypriot official said the two British bases on the eastern Mediterranean island would probably not be used for air strikes against the regime of Syrian President Bashar Assad. Cyprus, less […]

Turkey warns Israel, Greece offshore energy exploration

Special to WorldTribune.com ANKARA — Turkey has threatened to sanction companies that participate in energy exploration or development for the Republic of Cyprus. Officials said the government of Turkish Prime Minister Recep Erdogan would ban any foreign company that helps the offshore energy exploration project of the Republic of Cyprus. Turkey has warned that it […]

Congress could block sale of Super Cobra attack helicopters to Turkey

Congress could block sale of Super Cobra attack helicopters to Turkey

Special to WorldTribune.com WASHINGTON — The U.S. Congress could hold up a plan to sell three advanced combat helicopters to Turkey. Congressional sources said House and Senate leaders have questioned a proposal by President Barack Obama to export three AH-1W attack helicopters to the Turkish military. They said Turkey’s Islamist government has sought the new […]

Israel: ‘No political agenda’ behind exercise with Cyprus called ‘unfortunate’ by Turkey

Special to WorldTribune.com ANKARA — Israel and the Republic of Cyprus are said to have staged an air combat exercise. Turkish sources said Nicosia has allowed the Israel Air Force to stage an exercise around the Mediterranean island. They said the exercise was meant as a message to Ankara that Israel would not be hampered […]