Greece Condemns Ship Being Stranded: "We Will Ensure Such an Incident Does Not Recur"

After hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters blocked Israeli tourists from disembarking on the island of Syros, the Greek government today (Tuesday) condemned the incident that led to the Israelis being stranded on the ship.

Greece's Shipping Minister, Vasilis Kikilias, spoke with Transportation Minister Miri Regev following the incident, and promised her that "Greece will do everything to ensure such an incident does not recur." He further pledged that in future instances when an Israeli ship arrives at a Greek port - reinforced forces will be stationed around it.

As mentioned, earlier today Channel 12 News reported that hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters blocked Israelis from disembarking from a ship operated by "Mano Maritime" that arrived at the island of Syros in Greece. After the Israelis were not allowed to leave the ship due to the demonstration for about an hour, it was decided that the ship would leave the port and make its way to Cyprus.

One of the Israelis recounted that all the people on the ship were surprised, and there are children who are really worried, scared, and asking questions. Armed security guards from the shipping company were present on the ship, and Greek police were also on site and created a barrier between the ship and the protesters.

Mano Maritime stated that "as in several places in Europe, a demonstration of dozens of pro-Palestinians is taking place today in Syros, Europe. We are in contact with local authorities, and due to this there is a slight delay in passenger disembarkation. During the season we have occasional docking in Syros, the time spent in port will be extended accordingly. The tours at the location will not be affected. There are no armed police on the ship, only Israeli security personnel as is customary on the ship at all times."