The Government Council for Foreign Affairs and Defense (KYSEA) held an emergency meeting on Sunday, chaired by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, to discuss internal security measures taken so far, particularly concerning the protection of critical infrastructure. The situation in the Strait of Hormuz and the possibility of its closure by Iran were also discussed.

Specifically, KYSEA reviewed the measures implemented for internal security in the wake of the Middle East crisis, as well as the protection of strategically important critical infrastructure, such as the Souda Base.

Regarding the Strait of Hormuz and Greek shipping, it was noted that there are not many Greek ships currently in the strait, although the number is higher in the broader area.

A NAVTEX has also been issued and is regularly updated by the competent authorities to ensure ships can remain in safe ports.

Finally, during the KYSEA meeting, it was noted that many Israeli tourists who were in Greece have returned to their country. The reduction in the number of Israeli tourists in Greece was viewed positively, as many had been stranded due to flight suspensions.

In his statement, the government spokesperson mentioned, among other things, that Greece’s longstanding position is that Iran must not acquire nuclear weapons and that a resolution to this issue should come through diplomacy.

It was also emphasized that Greece’s priority is the safety of its citizens in the region.

The statement by government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis is as follows:

An emergency meeting of the Government Council for National Security (KYSEA) was held today under Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

During the session, an assessment of the latest developments in the Middle East was conducted.

The government expresses its deep concern. What is essential now is the demonstration of restraint and the resumption of dialogue in order to avoid further escalation.

Greece’s consistent position is that Iran must not acquire nuclear weapons and that a solution to this issue must be sought through diplomacy.

Greece’s priority remains the safety of its citizens in the region.

At the same time, the government – through the Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy – has taken the necessary steps to inform the maritime community, recommending that ships under the Greek flag or of Greek interest located near the Strait of Hormuz remain in safe ports until the situation stabilizes.

Greek authorities remain on high alert at all levels to address the consequences of a complex and uncertain geopolitical situation.