Greek authorities have increased security at the ports of Patras and Katakolo following demonstrations against an Israeli cruise ship. The MS Crown Iris, carrying Israeli tourists on an 11-day Mediterranean tour, faced protests when it docked in Kalamata earlier this week, prompting the heightened measures.
Protesters in Kalamata shouted slogans and waved Palestinian flags, with schoolteacher Christina Lada saying they could not stay silent over Israel's actions in Gaza. 'Despite the ceasefire, Israel is still continuing its attacks. Innocent, unarmed civilians are being killed,' she told reporters.
Yannis Sifanakis, a leading anti-war campaigner, said the rallies reflected anger over events in a region many Greeks consider part of the Mediterranean. 'Those Israelis who support the actions of their government aren't welcome here,' he stated.
International relations expert Constantine Filis noted Greece's difficult position due to its ties with Israel and sensitivity to Gaza. 'Because of geographic proximity and traditional ties with the Arab world, the average Greek is more sensitive to what is happening in Gaza,' he said. The protests have drawn criticism as antisemitic, with some hospitality groups condemning them.
The incident underscores the complex relationship between Greece and Israel, which has strengthened in recent years. Over 600,000 Israelis visited Greece in 2024, but the protest movement has alarmed Israeli officials, who warned tourists to keep a low profile. Victor Eliezer of the Central Board of Jewish Communities in Greece expressed concern that rhetoric could turn antisemitic, while noting that many Jews condemn extremist Israeli government positions.
