Gökçeada Fisherman Defies Greek Harassment in International Waters

A Turkish fishing boat operating in international waters off the coast of Gökçeada (Imbros) was harassed by Greek Coast Guard elements. Tensions flared once again in these waters, which have witnessed similar incidents many times over the years. However, with the intervention of a Turkish Coast Guard boat dispatched to the area, the Greek forces were forced to retreat.

Tense Moments at Zürafa Rocks

Fisherman İlker Özdemir, who set sail to fish near Zürafa rocks—located between Gökçeada and the Greek island of Samothrace—was subjected to close surveillance by a Greek Coast Guard boat, despite being in international waters. Özdemir is known among Gökçeada fishermen for his courageous stance against Greek Coast Guard elements in past years.

During the incident, the Greek Coast Guard boat circled Özdemir's vessel at high speed as he continued on his course without deviation. These moments of harassment were recorded moment by moment by the crew on board. Fisherman İlker Özdemir shared the footage with the public via his social media account.

Özdemir: "We Won't Give Up Either"

İlker Özdemir recounted the tension in his own words in the recorded footage:

"They sent a large, armed vessel. There's nothing we can do; we're fighting. We're fishing in the Zürafa rocks area, still in the same spots. They don't stop doing this, and we won't give up either. Our boat is steel, more reliable, and they know it. They passed very close."

Özdemir's resolute words once again highlighted the determination of Gökçeada's fishermen to exercise their rights in international waters.

Turkish Coast Guard Intervenes

Shortly after the harassment incident, a Turkish Coast Guard boat was dispatched to the area. Upon its arrival, the Greek Coast Guard elements withdrew and left the area. The swift intervention of the Turkish Coast Guard was seen as a reassuring development for fishermen operating in the region.

Recurring Issue for Gökçeada Fishermen

Fishermen from Gökçeada, a district of Çanakkale, occasionally face such harassment incidents, particularly in international waters around Zürafa rocks. For the island's community, fishing is not just a livelihood but also an important part of maritime tradition and the island's identity. These incidents, rather than breaking the resolve of Gökçeada's fishermen, further strengthen their determination to maintain their presence at sea.

The footage shared by İlker Özdemir on social media quickly sparked widespread reaction, with the people of Gökçeada sending messages of support to their fishermen.