The Greek government is mobilising a series of emergency measures in response to the escalating conflict in the Middle East, following a critical meeting of the Governmental Security Council (GSC) held on Wednesday.
Concerns over potential waves of refugees, the risk of terrorist attacks, and economic disruptions are driving the government’s plans as the situation in the region intensifies.
The immediate focus of Wednesday’s emergency meeting was on ensuring the safe evacuation of Greek citizens from conflict zones. According to the Foreign Ministry, approximately 3,600 Greek citizens are currently in Lebanon, and so far, 50 have requested to leave. On Thursday, a C-130 aircraft departed for Lebanon to bring evacuees back to Greece, with additional resources being readied for the potential evacuation of Cypriot citizens.
Refugee Influx Concerns
One of the government’s primary concerns is the possibility of a surge in migration flows towards Greece as the conflict deepens. Lebanon, which hosts around 2.5 million refugees, mainly Palestinians in camps managed by Hezbollah, faces severe instability. Should this system collapse, there is a substantial risk of increased refugee flows, with potential routes involving either Turkey or Libya.
In response, Greece has heightened its state of alert. The government's contingency plan includes two main strategies: continuing enhanced surveillance of the borders and expanding capacity in select refugee accommodation facilities, preparing for the possibility of an influx of displaced people.
Heightened Security Against Terrorism
Another key issue discussed at the GSC meeting was the threat of potential terrorist attacks, an ongoing concern shared by many European countries. Given the escalation in the Middle East, Greek authorities, including the Hellenic Police (ELAS) and the National Intelligence Service (EYP), are now on heightened alert. Border surveillance has been intensified to preempt any threats, and monitoring mechanisms have been strengthened across the country.
The government has reported that the existing system for screening and identifying potential terrorist suspects is functioning effectively, with no recent deportations of migrants linked to terrorism by other European nations. However, as the anniversary of the Hamas attack on Israel approaches, security measures are being ramped up, particularly around public institutions and places of worship, in anticipation of solidarity events for Palestine.
Prime Minister Mitsotakis Visits Evros
Amid these heightened concerns, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis visited the Evros region on Thursday to speak at an event titled "National Strategy for Regional and Local Development: Moving Forward Together for Evros" at the Cultural Centre of Orestiada.
During his visit, Mitsotakis will unveil a comprehensive development plan for the region. Key to this plan will be discussions on extending the border fence with Turkey, emphasising Greece’s ongoing commitment to border security amid escalating geopolitical tensions.
(Source: To Vima and Iefimerida)