Turkey’s military cooperation with eastern Libya is raising eyebrows, particularly in Egypt. This shift marks a significant change from Turkey’s previous support for the Tripoli government, now extending to Khalifa Haftar’s forces. The implications are profound, as Turkey’s presence in eastern Libya could challenge Egypt’s long-held influence in the region.
The evolving relationship between Turkey and Haftar’s Libyan National Army (LNA) includes military training and advanced surveillance systems. This cooperation is seen as a strategic move by Turkey to secure its interests in Libya, especially concerning a maritime border agreement that could reshape regional dynamics. While Egypt has historically backed Haftar, it appears to be adopting a more pragmatic approach, coordinating with Turkey to mitigate potential conflicts.
Interestingly, experts suggest that Turkey’s engagement may align with Egypt’s broader goals, particularly in limiting support for rival forces in Sudan. This unexpected collaboration indicates a shift from rigid polarisation to flexible partnerships in the region, where both countries are prioritising stability over conflict.
However, the situation remains delicate. Any permanent Turkish military presence near Egypt’s borders could provoke significant concerns. As Turkey and Egypt navigate this new landscape, the focus will be on maintaining a balance that respects each nation’s strategic interests while addressing the complexities of Libyan politics.
Source: Al Jazeera
