Greece’s Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis has sought to reassure the public that American military installations in Greece, including the naval base at Souda Bay Naval Base, are not currently under threat, despite mounting instability across the Middle East.
Speaking to In.gr on Monday, Gerapetritis said there is “no danger at the moment” to US facilities on Greek soil, but confirmed that heightened preventive measures have been introduced as a precaution.
He characterised the regional climate as volatile and unpredictable, particularly following upheaval within Iran’s leadership.
“The reality is that things are quite asymmetrical right now. It is clear that after [Supreme Leader Ali] Khamenei’s death, the situation in the leadership of Iran and the Revolutionary Guard is relatively chaotic, as a result of which we cannot predict with certainty what the potential strikes will be. However, I feel that at the moment the emphasis on the Iranian side is particularly on US bases located around the Gulf,” he said.
Gerapetritis added that reinforced security arrangements are in place at all relevant sites, in accordance with established protocols during periods of heightened tension.
He also confirmed that Athens has activated a contingency plan to repatriate Greek citizens stranded in the region due to airspace closures. Embassies have been placed on high alert, additional communication channels have been opened, and repatriation flights will commence immediately wherever airspace conditions permit, with special flights to be arranged if necessary.
Source: Ekathimerini
