On September 1, the Greek air force attempted to intercept a Turkish maritime patrol plane which was performing a security task near Rhodes island of Greece—and as part of NATO’s Sea Guardian mission, Anadolu Agency reported, citing sources at the Ministry of National Defense of Turkey.

"The Ministry of National Defense of Turkey emphasized that the plane was not armed. A proper response was given to the actions of the Greek side, the department informed," the respective statement added.

Greece-Turkey relations have deteriorated considerably in recent years—and due to territorial disputes. The two countries are unable to agree on their maritime zones.