Strategic Alignment Takes Shape

The 10th Israel–Greece–Greek Cypriot trilateral summit in Jerusalem formalized a widening security and technology alignment in the Eastern Mediterranean. Hosted by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the talks brought together Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides. Officials said cooperation would expand “in every field, including defense,” framing the format as a stabilizing mechanism in a contested maritime theater. The meeting followed separate bilateral engagements, including Mitsotakis’ earlier discussions with Netanyahu and with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas in Ramallah.

Netanyahu avoided naming Türkiye but used historical imagery to underline deterrence. Referring to past imperial rule over Greece, Cyprus, and Israel, he said, “Forget it. Don’t even think about it. We are three countries capable of defending ourselves.” Mitsotakis described the trilateral as a pillar of “responsibility, stability, and common interests,” while Christodoulides said the leaders were committing to further deepen cooperation.

“We Can Defend Ourselves”

Defense cooperation featured prominently. Greece is advancing a €3.5 billion “Achilles Shield” air and missile defense plan spanning its land border, the Aegean, and the Eastern Mediterranean. As a first step, Athens approved the purchase of 36 PULS (Precise and Universal Launching System) multiple rocket launchers from Israel, valued at €691 million, including missiles and ammunition. Greek officials have indicated that additional missile systems for the program are also expected to be sourced from Israel.

The three countries also agreed to expand collaboration in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and advanced research. Netanyahu emphasized Israel’s technology sector, citing growing commercial and travel links. He said there are 180 reciprocal flights per week between Israel and Greek Cypriot airports, underscoring the scale of economic integration alongside security ties.

Missiles, Training, and Industry

Military-to-military links between Israel and Greece have intensified in recent years through scheduled joint exercises. Israeli defense firms have established a tangible footprint in Greece. A consortium led by SK Group and Plasan Sasa acquired 79 percent of ELVO, the Thessaloniki-based Hellenic Vehicle Industry, with a €3 million cash payment and a €90 million investment commitment. Separately, Elbit Systems is modernizing the flight training center in Kalamata, on the Peloponnese, converting it into an International Flight Training Center for Greek pilot candidates.

At the summit, Mitsotakis announced plans to establish a cybersecurity center in the Greek Cypriot administration, expected to become operational by summer. The facility will host joint exercises involving the armed forces of all three countries. While Israeli media have written about contingency planning for a joint air and naval rapid reaction force, leaders in Jerusalem did not publicly reference a combined brigade.

Gaza and Domestic Pushback

Gaza was an undercurrent throughout the talks. Greek and Greek Cypriot leaders have publicly supported Israel’s position, and local media said they sought a role in a proposed “International Stabilization Force” envisioned in a second phase of U.S. President Donald Trump’s Gaza plan. When an Israeli journalist asked for a message to Türkiye, officials intervened to halt questions. Asked later about Iran and discussions with Trump, Netanyahu said, “We don’t want to confront anyone.”

The summit drew criticism inside Greece. The New Left party warned that the trilateral risks becoming a military bloc, arguing it signals escalation toward Türkiye while sidelining international law and the Gaza conflict. Greek outlets also noted the prominence Israeli media gave the meeting, characterizing it as a “trilateral alliance” and a coordinated front in the Eastern Mediterranean.