Rhodes: Tensions and Protests During Israeli Cruise Ship Arrival

Tensions arose in Rhodes during the arrival of the Israeli cruise ship "Crown Iris." Protesters gathered at the port, expressing solidarity with the Palestinian people. Strong police forces were deployed to prevent incidents.

Before the ship docked, police detained protesters. According to the Hellenic Police (EL.AS.), there were 8 arrests and 14 detentions. Among those detained was Evangelia Panahi, a politician from Plefsis Eleftherias and former municipal councilor of Rhodes.

During the disembarkation of tourists, protesters opened a corridor, holding banners and chanting slogans in support of Palestine, such as "No peace without justice - Freedom to Palestine." The Association of Entrepreneurs and Professionals of the Medieval City of Rhodes and other organizations had expressed their opposition to the mobilization, while the Mayor of Rhodes, Alexandros Koliadis, welcomed the cruise ship.

Similar mobilizations are expected in Agios Nikolaos, Crete, the next stop of the "Crown Iris."

The Minister of Citizen Protection, Michalis Chrysochoidis, has stated that the anti-racism law will be activated against anyone who tries to prevent the legal entry of citizens of a third country.