Kathimerini Greece Newsroom
By Vasilis Nedos
Athens is deeply concerned about the recent developments in the Middle East, following the assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniya in Tehran and Hezbollah leader Fouad Shoukr in Beirut.
From Athens' perspective, this event perpetuates the current cycle of violence and destabilization, undermining any prospects for a ceasefire.
Athens anticipates escalation, as it is unlikely Tehran will leave such a highly symbolic strike unanswered, raising fears of wider regional destabilization with implications beyond security.
One of Athens' primary concerns is a potential increase in migratory flows, while further destabilization could impact the supply chain, putting downward pressure on inflation and prices.
Pessimistic assessments are reinforced by Israel facing not only Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon but also increasing competition with Iran, making the situation unpredictable. The deeper involvement of the Houthis, striking directly at Israel, highlights the crisis's scale.
Lebanon and Iraq are arenas of proxy competition, but Athens also notes Turkey's strong involvement, driven by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's rhetoric as a defender of Islam.
The regional puzzle includes Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, which have played constructive roles but face different problems that could exacerbate the Middle East's volatility.
Uncertainty is heightened by the US election period, with President Joe Biden not seeking re-election, and presidential candidates focused domestically.
As the situation remains uncertain, Athens is on high alert. Diplomatic authorities in the region are vigilant, and the Foreign Ministry has renewed its advisory to avoid non-essential visits to Israel, the Palestinian territories, and Iran.
The Foreign Ministry also recommends avoiding visits to Lebanon, advising those still in the country to leave. Lebanon is seen as a weak link, with up to 4,000 Greek passport holders in the country. Athens is ready to assist with repatriation in consultation with Cypriot authorities and has coordinated with Ottawa, given the large number of Canadian citizens in Lebanon.
Despite the situation, maintaining a strategic relationship with Israel remains a priority for Athens. Political consultations between Greece and Israel took place in Athens, with Israeli Foreign Ministry Political Director Alisa bin Noon and Deputy Foreign Minister Alexandra Papadopoulou discussing the need for stability and strong cooperation in the Middle East. Bin Noon highlighted Iran and its proxies as threats to international peace, stability, and supply chains.
