Alexandroupoli: Solidarity rally for the Palestinian People
A large and vibrant demonstration took place on Sunday morning in Alexandroupoli, organized by the Peace Committees of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, labor unions, and local grassroots groups. Citizens of all ages—including peace activists, students, workers, freelancers, and farmers from the wider region—gathered in solidarity with the Palestinian people, demanding Greece’s disengagement from military operations and halting all facilitation of NATO’s ongoing “Immediate Response 2025” military exercise, which participants described as a “genuine war rehearsal.”
Key Slogans and Themes
Participants chanted slogans such as:
- “Freedom for Palestine”
- “This crime is signed by NATO, the EU, and Israel”
- “History has only one just side—with Palestine for freedom”
Opening Address by Army Officer
The event opened with a speech by Army Lieutenant Vaios Tsaprounis, currently serving in Xanthi. “As a soldier, I refuse to serve plans that breed poverty, displacement, and death,” he said. “As a human being, I cannot turn a blind eye while a child burns in Gaza.” He also referenced soldier Antonis from Komotini, noting: “If your voice bothers them, it’s because it carries depth, strength, substance, and soul—just like the resisting peoples of the world.”
Poetic Tribute
A moving recitation followed of the poem “Speech in the Unemployment Market” by Palestinian poet Samih al-Qasim. Its echoing refrain, “And until the final beat of my heart—I shall resist!” remained etched in attendees’ minds.
Central Speech
The main address was delivered by Alexandra Stamatelatou, President of the Alexandroupoli Peace Committee. Her speech focused on:
- Expressing unwavering solidarity with the Palestinian people
- Opposing Greece’s participation in NATO-USA-EU war strategies
Highlighting the link between imperialist "peace" and imperialist war, driven by economic dominance and control over trade routes, energy networks, and natural resources
She criticized NATO’s war economy, citing the EU’s €800 billion “ReArm Europe” program and the Greek government’s €25 billion defense expenditure—funds she argued are being diverted from vital public services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. “Their peace is preparation for their war,” she said.
Greek Involvement in Global Conflicts
The speech also outlined Greece’s growing entanglement in conflicts spanning Ukraine, the Balkans, the Middle East, and the Indian Ocean. It touched on issues of national sovereignty, including tensions with Turkey, looming compromises in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean, and the orchestrated division of Cyprus under NATO influence.
Resistance Against Corporate Exploitation
The rally also condemned the sell-off of regional mineral wealth—especially gold mines—to large business conglomerates. The audience was reminded that the recent summoning of conscript Antonis for disciplinary action marks an escalation in state repression against outspoken military personnel.
Stamatelatou praised the courage of conscripted youth and armed forces members who resist, despite mounting pressure, the country's involvement in NATO-US-EU war agendas.
Final Call to Action
Concluding her speech, she called on citizens to organize, show solidarity, and push back through workplaces, unions, and community associations. The event ended with chants of “Solidarity with the people of Palestine!” echoed in Greek, English, Arabic, Turkish, and Bulgarian—followed by a large and energetic march through the city streets.
