The Greek Embassy in Israel issued a strong condemnation on Monday regarding a violent assault that occurred in Crete, targeting an Israeli Arab tourist who was mistakenly identified as Jewish. The embassy confirmed that local authorities are conducting a “thorough investigation” into the matter.
The incident involved 24-year-old Fahad Qubati, a Christian tourist from Nazareth, who was vacationing in the coastal town of Malia when he was attacked last Wednesday. Reports indicate that he sustained significant injuries to his jaw and head and was subsequently hospitalized.
The attack was first reported by Israel’s Ynet news outlet. It began after the assailants, having heard Qubati playing Hebrew music in his car, began to beat him violently. The situation escalated until he revealed the cross he wore, indicating his Christian faith. It is noted that Qubati is also a recently discharged IDF soldier.
“This was not just an attack; it was an attempted murder,” said Jacqueline Qubati, the victim’s mother, in an interview with Ynet. “I pray for my son’s recovery and will pursue this case until the attackers are justly punished,” she added.
Following the emergence of the incident in Israeli media, the Greek Embassy in Tel Aviv released a statement denouncing the assault. “Greece strongly condemns the violent attack on an Israeli citizen last Wednesday… local authorities are conducting a thorough investigation,” the statement read.
The embassy emphasized, “Acts of violence are unacceptable. All Israelis are welcome in Greece, which is a totally safe tourist destination.”
Israel and Greece share strong bilateral relations, with Greece becoming an increasingly popular vacation spot for Israelis, especially as many have chosen to avoid neighboring Turkey due to its leadership’s growing support for Hamas.