Protests Erupt in Greece Over Arrival of Israeli Cruise Ship
Dozens of protesters gathered Monday at the port of Argostoli on the Greek island of Kefalonia to oppose the arrival of the cruise ship Crown Iris, which carried around 1,500 Israeli tourists. The demonstration occurred amid escalating tensions resulting from the war in Gaza.
Protests and Police Measures
Greek media reported the Crown Iris docked in the morning under heavy police presence, with reinforcements sent from Athens and Patras to ensure security. Roads near the port were temporarily closed, and Israeli tourists were transported by buses to designated locations on the island to avoid conflicts.
Demonstrators' Actions and Slogans
Protesters gathered with Palestinian flags and banners, chanting slogans such as “Freedom for Palestine.” They accused Israel of committing atrocities in Gaza.
“Freedom for Palestine.”
Protesters marched to express opposition to the cruise ship carrying Israeli tourists.
Previous Similar Protests
Similar protests occurred the previous week when the same cruise ship docked at the ports of Patras and Kalamata on Greece’s Peloponnese peninsula. In Patras on October 29, protesters displayed banners and Palestinian flags, prompting the Crown Iris to reroute and avoid the port after backlash.
“The Crown Iris cruise ship carrying Israeli tourists was scheduled to arrive at the Port of Patras but changed its route due to the backlash.” – Andreas Alexopoulos, Anadolu Agency
Summary
The arrival of the Crown Iris carrying Israeli tourists has sparked strong protests across multiple Greek ports, reflecting the heightened emotions surrounding the Gaza conflict and leading to significant security responses.
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