German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas

Germany's foreign minister has called for tensions to de-escalate in the eastern Mediterranean between Greece and Turkey, warning on Tuesday that a "spark could lead to a disaster".

Iran PressEurope: The two NATO allies have come to blows over energy resources in the disputed Mediterranean Sea and are both set to carry out rival navy drills. They have also put their militaries on high alert and have sent warships to shadow each other in a dispute that has drawn in the European Union, reported by Euronews.

“The current situation in the eastern Mediterranean is ... playing with fire, and any spark -- however small -- could lead to a disaster,” German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said after meeting with his Greek counterpart Nikos Dendias.

Maas said Germany and the whole of the EU stood by Greece "in firm solidarity".

"What we now need absolutely and immediately are signals of de-escalation and a readiness for dialogue,” he said.

Turkey and Greece announced military exercises on Tuesday in sections of a broad area between Crete and Cyprus.

220

Read More:

Tear gas shot by Turkey and Greece over migrants at border

Greece blocks passage of migrants as Turkey opens the doors