Protests over the Gaza conflict reignite in Greece due to the arrival of an Israeli cruise ship
In recent weeks, the Crown Iris, an Israeli cruise ship operated by Mano Maritime, has faced sustained protests in various Greek ports as a response to the ongoing Gaza conflict. These demonstrations, which have occurred in cities such as Volos, Syros, Piraeus, Crete, and Rhodes since late July 2025, have involved tens to hundreds of protesters expressing solidarity with Palestinians by waving flags, chanting slogans, and at times clashing with riot police.
The protests have had varying degrees of disruption for the cruise ship and its passengers. In Syros, more than 150 protesters blocked the port, causing the Crown Iris to leave early without allowing passengers to disembark, thereby upsetting about 1,700 Israeli tourists' plans. In other ports like Volos and Rhodes, passengers still managed to disembark for tours, despite ongoing protests and police clashes, including the use of pepper spray and stun grenades.
These protests are part of a broader surge in anti-Zionist and pro-Palestinian mobilizations across Greece. Some have labelled the nation a potential "playground" for IDF supporters, which local authorities have publicly condemned as unacceptable. The Health Minister of Greece, Adonis Georgiadis, denounced the protests against the Crown Iris, stating that antisemitism has no place in Greece.
Israel's Foreign Minister, Gideon Sa'ar, has reportedly contacted his Greek counterpart over these protests, expressing concerns that they could harm Israeli tourism in the country. Greece is a popular tourist destination for Israelis, particularly during the summer months. Despite the protests, Israeli tourists have generally been able to visit, albeit amid hostile protests and heightened security.
In a bid to appease affected tourists, Adonis Georgiadis wrote an apology to those whose holidays were disrupted due to the protests. Protesters, however, have expressed their disapproval of welcoming tourists from Israel while Palestinians are suffering in Gaza.
As the protests continue, it remains to be seen how they will impact Israeli tourism in Greece. While the protests have caused some disruptions and generated negative public and media attention, they have not halted tourism entirely. The Crown Iris, despite the challenges, has continued its itinerary, navigating through the politically charged response to the Gaza conflict in Greece.
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