Greece has successfully evacuated 141 people from Israel, including 105 Greek nationals, as the conflict between Israel and Iran intensifies with ongoing aerial strikes and escalating hostilities, government officials have announced.
The complex rescue operation underscores the growing alarm across the Middle East.
The repatriation effort was carried out in close coordination with Egyptian authorities, starting with a ground evacuation to Egypt.
This was followed by airlifts from Sharm El-Sheikh to Athens using Greek Air Force C-130 and C-27 military transport aircraft. Among those rescued were citizens from several European Union countries, including Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Cyprus, Lithuania, Hungary, Portugal, Romania, and Sweden, as well as from the U.S., Switzerland, Albania, and Georgia.
Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis said Greece is prepared to launch additional evacuation missions if more citizens request to leave Israel.
"We had three aircraft, two C-27s and a C-130. If necessary, we will conduct new operations," Mr. Gerapetritis said in an interview with Mega TV. "This requires delicate coordination with Israeli and Egyptian authorities, given the volatile security conditions, including widespread airspace closures across the region."
Efforts are also underway to evacuate a small number of Greek nationals from Iran, although the government acknowledges that the operation there is far more challenging due to severe restrictions. "We’re working to begin the process today," Mr. Gerapetritis said. "This will not be an airlift. Conditions do not allow it. We have a special evacuation plan in place."
The Greek government began compiling registries of its citizens in both countries within hours of the first missile exchanges between Israel and Iran, in order to maintain communication and coordinate departures.
Officials urge all Greek nationals remaining in the region to stay in close contact with the country’s embassies and consulates.
Athens continues to stress the urgent need for de-escalation in the region, warning there is no military solution to the growing confrontation.
Greece remains firm on two key principles; that Iran must not be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons, and any resolution of the brewing conflict must come through diplomatic means.
"The priority is the safety of Greek citizens, wherever they are," a government source said.