Michael Tanchum

There has already been one collision between a Greek warship and a Turkish warship, in which the Turkish vessel took some damage, the danger of miscalculation or further accidents touching off an open clash that no one wants is now dangerously high.

Michael Tanchum

Both France and its close partner the United Arab Emirates compete with Turkey for influence throughout the Middle East and North Africa. The Eastern Mediterranean is where France and the UAE can pressure Turkey in a region that Turkey views as vital for its national interests. This has put Turkey back on its heels and Ankara has responded by doubling down with repeated rounds of escalation.

Michael Tanchum