The government is carefully weighing the dramatic international developments, prioritizing the protection of Greek citizens in Persian Gulf countries and the Middle East and the repatriation of those who wish it, where conditions permit. In Athens, Kyriakos Mitsotakis is beginning a briefing cycle with political leaders -provided they request it themselves- on the rapid developments and Greece’s stance, as he will meet at 12:00 in his parliamentary office with PASOK-KINAL president Nikos Androulakis. On Monday, the prime minister held a video conference with heads of Greek embassies and consulates in Cyprus, Iran and the Middle East where he was briefed on the extremely difficult situation prevailing in the field and emphasized that the government’s first priority is the security and support of Greek citizens in the region. During the meeting, repatriation plans that have been developed for implementation when air traffic is restored and ground conditions permit were discussed.
George Gerapetritis will brief party representatives, as tomorrow, Wednesday, at 10:00 AM the National Foreign Policy Council has been announced to convene under the Foreign Minister’s chairmanship, focusing on Middle East developments. Shortly after, Mr. Mitsotakis will speak publicly about the issue in detail for the first time during his parliamentary address on the overseas voting bill for Greeks abroad. The core of our country’s position, as described by government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis, is that Greece puts international law first and above all, calls for avoiding further escalation and prioritizes the security of every citizen both within borders and Greek citizens abroad. Regarding possible consequences of escalating Middle East tensions on the Greek economy, National Economy Ministry sources noted that “the current fiscal framework and European spending rules guarantee the continuation of economic planning, even under adverse conditions.”
Simultaneously, in a move of high symbolism and geopolitical implications, the Greek government -following communication between Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Nikos Christodoulides- decided on Monday to immediately and practically strengthen Cyprus’ defense against threats from Iran and Hezbollah in Lebanon. The threats reportedly target British bases at Akrotiri, however all of Cyprus is unsettled and Greek field support has both psychological and practical significance, contributing significantly to strengthening the island’s anti-aircraft and anti-drone defense.
Thus, the government is immediately sending the frigate “Kimon” to Cyprus, the first of four ultra-modern Belharra-type (FDI) frigates recently integrated into the Navy, along with a second Greek frigate (“Psara”) carrying the “Centaur” system: This is the integrated anti-drone system, a product of collaboration between the Greek Defense Innovation Center (ELKAK) and HAI, successfully tested during Operation “Aspides” in the Red Sea. Beyond the two warships, our country is sending a pair of F-16 fighters to the Republic of Cyprus, “to contribute to its defense against the threats it faces,” as Defense Minister Nikos Dendias characteristically emphasized when announcing the decision. Today, Mr. Dendias, together with Chief of General Staff Dimitris Choupis, will travel to Cyprus and meet with his counterpart Vasilis Palmas, as well as President Christodoulides, for better coordination of actions with the Republic of Cyprus.
Regarding Souda, when asked (by in.gr) whether there are fears for the American base, Mr. Gerapetritis emphasized that “there is no danger at this moment, however we are obligated and it is right to take preventive measures and remain constantly vigilant.”
