As Rivals Fight for Control of Libya, Erdogan Says Turkey May Jump In

Source:New York Times Date:11Dec2019

Mr. Erdogan has more at stake, though, than stability in Libya.

His comments about a possible military intervention come just days after Ankara signed a deal with the Tripoli government that would give Turkey drilling, pipeline and other maritime rights over an expanded portion of the Mediterranean Sea between the countries. That set off outrage from Greece and Europe, but gave Turkey a new financial stake in the Tripoli government.

The president’s statements, Mr. Lacher said, “suggest that this agreement is so important to the Turks that they are willing to do whatever it takes to stop Hifter from winning.”