Syros bans planned protest against Israeli cruise ship
Authorities on the Greek island of Syros have banned a planned demonstration against the arrival of the Israeli-owned cruise ship Crown Iris, citing potential threats to public safety, port operations and local economic activity, Kathimerini reported.
The Coast Guard announced the decision on Monday, ahead of the vessel's scheduled arrival in Ermoupoli on Tuesday morning.
The Crown Iris, owned by Israel's Mano Maritime, can accommodate up to 2,000 passengers and 650 crew members. The vessel is scheduled to visit Syros from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. as part of an Aegean island cruise.
Protest organised in support of Palestinians
The Syros Anti-War Initiative had called for a demonstration along the Ermoupoli waterfront shortly before the ship's arrival.
The group said the protest aimed to express solidarity with Palestinians and other populations affected by the conflict in the Middle East.
Organisers also criticised Israel's military campaign in Gaza, launched following the Hamas-led attack on Israel in October 2023.
Authorities warn of possible clashes
According to the Coast Guard, holding the demonstration at the originally planned location could create serious security risks, including possible confrontations between protesters and tourists.
Authorities also cited potential threats to human life, property and the safe operation of the port, as well as possible disruption to the island's social and economic activity.
The Coast Guard said demonstrations could still take place at alternative locations away from the waterfront.
Previous visits also sparked protests
Previous visits by the Crown Iris to Syros have prompted similar demonstrations and restrictions by authorities.
The protests have also drawn criticism from Greece's conservative government amid wider tensions surrounding demonstrations against Israel's military operations in Gaza.
The latest decision has renewed debate over public security and the right to demonstrate in connection with the Middle East conflict.
Source: Kathimerini.
