Independent MP, former Minister of Defense, and former Chief of the Hellenic National Defense General Staff, Evangelos Apostolakis, was at Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos” yesterday afternoon to welcome his son, Alexandros Apostolakis, who was among the 27 Greek citizens detained in Israel after taking part in the Global Sumud Flotilla — a mission aiming to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Alexandros Apostolakis was one of those held in prison following the interception of the international solidarity flotilla off the coast of Gaza. Speaking today to OPEN TV, Evangelos Apostolakis commented on the incident and expressed his support for the activists’ goals.

“As both a father and a member of the Hellenic Parliament, I am obliged to say that I endorse any action aimed at promoting peace and supporting people who are facing genocide,” he said.

Criticism of the Government’s Reaction

Apostolakis criticized the Greek government for what he described as a “lukewarm response” regarding the detention of the 27 participants by Israel.

“All governments should support, commend, and highlight such initiatives — not hinder them,” he said. “The reaction of the Greek government was rather muted. The Foreign Ministry kept us very well informed, but the initiatives taken were somewhat… timid. The Turks acted immediately, without much hesitation. Israel should have treated the Greek citizens differently, especially since we supposedly have an excellent strategic relationship. Yet, despite everything happening, the voices from our country have been rather restrained.”

On the Treatment of the Detainees

Commenting on the treatment of the detained activists — including the Greeks — while in Israeli custody, Apostolakis was sharply critical:

“Their behavior towards them was unacceptable. Frankly, that thug — I can’t describe him otherwise — the Israeli Minister of Security, subjected them to unbelievable bullying. Then they handcuffed them. What were they supposed to be? Terrorists? They were placed in a prison for terrorists. It’s outrageous.”

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Warm Welcome in Athens

At the airport, a large crowd gathered holding banners in support of the activists. Alongside Evangelos Apostolakis, Euclid Tsakalotos and Zoe Konstantopoulou were also present to welcome them. Among those who returned to Greece was Peti Perka, MP for the New Left party.