Greek Health Minister Adonis Georgiadis condemned far-left harassment of Israeli tourists on August 11, 2026, and requested prosecutor intervention under national anti-racism laws. He made the statement in response to agitators targeting Israeli visitors who choose Greece for their summer vacations.
Georgiadis specifically highlighted concerns regarding the planned arrival of a cruise ship in Volos in a few days. He stated that if protesters gather to block passengers, public prosecutors must intervene under anti-racism legislation passed by parliament.
Response to Far-Left Protests
In a video posted on his personal X account (@AdonisGeorgiadi) with subtitles in Hebrew, Georgiadis described the agitators as a sad minority of the far left. He said their primary activity every August is targeting Jewish people, adding that their actions demonstrate neither logic nor sensitivity.
The minister distinguished constitutional rights to gather and protest from the deliberate pursuit of individuals. He said hunting down Jewish and Israeli visitors to harass them crosses the line into intimidation. He noted that the agitators chant slogans demanding the disappearance of Israel from the map.
Georgiadis further described the protesters as ill-mannered internationalists who do not love Greece or believe in nations. He stressed that they fail to respect the key benefits of Greece's relationship with Israel.
Strategic Alliance and Economic Impact
Georgiadis identified Israel as Greece's largest ally, noting its support in preventing Turkey from purchasing F-35 fighter jets. He added that Israel supports Greece on all matters concerning Cyprus and the Aegean Sea.
The relationship also yields significant economic benefits through investments and millions of Israeli tourists visiting Greece this summer, which Georgiadis said provides employment for many citizens.
Concluding his message, Georgiadis urged Israeli citizens not to fear visiting Greece, telling them they are loved and welcome. He emphasized that thousands of Greeks love and support Israel despite the actions of a small minority.
