Lebanon and Cyprus Finalize Maritime Border Agreement, Paving Way for Energy Exploration

Lebanon and Cyprus have signed a maritime border agreement, concluding nearly two decades of negotiations and setting the stage for potential offshore energy exploration. The accord, formalized on November 26, 2025, at the Baabda Presidential Palace near Beirut, delineates the Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ) between the two nations.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides officiated the signing ceremony. Christodoulides hailed the agreement as a "historic agreement," emphasizing its significance in strengthening bilateral relations and regional cooperation. Aoun expressed optimism that the deal would attract international partners for energy exploration, stating it sends "a clear... invitation" to collaborate with Lebanon.

The journey to this agreement began in 2007 when Lebanon and Cyprus drafted an initial maritime border accord. However, Lebanon's maritime dispute with Israel and internal political challenges delayed its ratification. A breakthrough occurred in 2022 with a U.S.-mediated agreement between Lebanon and Israel, which paved the way for Lebanon to finalize its agreement with Cyprus.

The delineation of the EEZ is particularly significant for Lebanon, which is seeking to alleviate its economic crisis through potential hydrocarbon discoveries. Offshore energy exploration could generate state revenues and economic activity to reverse the 2019 financial collapse. Cyprus, having discovered approximately 20 trillion cubic feet of gas in its waters, views the agreement as an opportunity to supply European markets aiming to reduce dependence on Russian gas.

Despite the positive outlook from Lebanon and Cyprus, Turkey has strongly objected to the agreement, arguing that it infringes upon the rights of Turkish Cypriots and is therefore unacceptable. The Turkish Defense Ministry stated, "It is not possible for us to accept any agreement in which the rights of the TRNC are disregarded," referring to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. Turkey expressed willingness to collaborate with Lebanon on maritime matters instead.

The agreement also marks a potential step toward broader regional cooperation, though Lebanon has yet to settle its maritime boundaries with Syria. Meanwhile, Lebanon struggles with internal unrest and border tensions with Israel, while trying to improve strained ties with Gulf nations frustrated by the influence of Hezbollah.

The Lebanon-Cyprus maritime border agreement represents a significant milestone in regional cooperation and energy exploration. While it holds promise for economic benefits, particularly for Lebanon, it also introduces new diplomatic challenges, especially concerning Turkey's objections. A thorough examination of these aspects will provide a comprehensive understanding of the agreement's implications.