The escalating situation in the Middle East, following Israeli strikes on Iran, is causing turbulence in the tourism sector. Despite Israeli tourists making up only about 2% of total arrivals and revenue in Greece, Israel was showing the strongest growth in scheduled airline seats among all international markets for Greece this summer.

According to data from the Institute of the Greek Tourism Confederation (INSETE), there were over 1 million scheduled air seats from Israel for the March–October 2025 season—up 41% compared to 755,000 in 2024. While this refers to planned capacity (not actual passengers), it indicates a strong interest in Greek destinations.

Israel had already seen a decline in tourism to Greece in the past two years due to conflict with Hamas. This year was expected to be the first full recovery for the Israeli market. In 2024, arrivals from Israel were around 621,000, accounting for 1.7% of total arrivals. Overnight stays reached 3.93 million, also 1.7% of the total, and revenues stood at €419 million or 2%.

The ongoing instability has caused disruptions in air travel. Seven airlines flying to Israel have indefinitely suspended operations due to airspace safety concerns. This affects neighboring regions too, with flights from Athens to Jordan and Iraq also impacted, as well as international flights to Iran.

Aegean Airlines announced cancellations of all flights to and from Tel Aviv until July 12, and all flights to Beirut, Amman, and Erbil until June 28. Other airlines halting flights from Athens include El Al, Israir, Arkia, Blue Bird, Wizz Air, and Air Haifa.

It is currently unclear how many travelers will be affected by the cancellations or for how long, as broader European aviation safety guidance from Eurocontrol remains in effect and affects all airlines’ operations.