Tensions rise between Greek Newspaper Efsyn and Israeli Embassy over Gaza coverage
A diplomatic rift has emerged between the Israeli Embassy in Athens and the Greek national daily Efimerida ton Syntakton (Efsyn), following a series of reports by the newspaper on developments in Gaza and anti-Israel protests.
In a letter signed by Doron Lebovich, Counselor at the Israeli Embassy, the diplomatic mission accused Efsyn of displaying a biased and hostile editorial stance toward Israel in its recent coverage. The letter specifically criticized the newspaper’s portrayal of canceled school visits by Israeli students and a planned event at the Thessaloniki Book Fair, alleging that the paper distorted facts.
According to the embassy, the student visits in Greece involved meaningful exchanges with local peers, while Efsyn reportedly characterized them as part of “Zionist propaganda.”
In response, Efsyn published the embassy’s letter in full on a dedicated page, pointing out that the 500-word document failed to mention either “Gaza” or “Palestine” even once.
The paper stood by its editorial stance, stating that Israel’s military actions in Gaza have targeted two million civilians, and emphasized its commitment to international law and human rights.
Efsyn further asserted that the Palestinian people’s demands for land and freedom are legitimate and must not be ignored.
The exchange highlights increasing tensions over media narratives related to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, as well as wider debates over freedom of the press and diplomatic sensitivity in Greece.
