Greek PM calls Israel’s attack on Lebanon counterproductive

Prime Minister of Greece Kyriakos Mitsotakis, in an interview with CNN and journalist Christiane Amanpour, discussed the ceasefire agreed upon between the US and Iran.

He noted that Greece had co-signed a joint statement welcoming the ceasefire and expressing hope that it would lead to lasting peace, CE Report quotes ANA-MPA.

Regarding the ceasefire and the situation in Lebanon, he conveyed a sense of optimism. The Greek Premier also said that Israel’s attack on Lebanon is counterproductive and noted that, if we are to talk about a final ceasefire in the region, all hostilities must cease. The only thing Israel is achieving is giving Hezbollah a new platform, he added.

Mitsotakis pointed out that Greece has a strategic partnership with Israel but, as he said, friends must be honest with one another. He added that, for the first time, there is a capable government in Lebanon, and if the attacks continue, we will be led into a humanitarian crisis.

He added that he hoped the attacks would stop in order to ensure that a broader framework of ceasefire was maintained.

Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, Mitsotakis said that it is of particular concern to Greece, as the country is the world’s largest shipping power.He said he did not believe the international community would agree to impose tolls on Iran, calling such a move unacceptable.

He added that it was likely there would ultimately be a separate international agreement on the Strait of Hormuz that would not include any fee for ships. He also said that if tolls were imposed now, it would be dangerous for the future of shipping.

Regarding the possibility of the US withdrawing from NATO, Mitsotakis expressed his strong belief in the resilience of the Alliance. He pointed out that the outcome of the US President’s initiatives has led Europe to unite on defence, with current spending exceeding 3% of GDP, thereby paving the way for the development of strategic autonomy.

He added that a different balance within NATO needs to be achieved for the good of the Alliance. When asked about Europe’s nuclear deterrent, he said that initial discussions had taken place, based on proposals put forward by French President Emmanuel Macron. Mitsotakis noted that France is the only country with a nuclear deterrent capability, while there was discussion about strengthening the European defence pillar, not to the detriment of NATO, which remains an Alliance that depends heavily on the US.

He emphasised that Europe must take on its share of the responsibility by increasing defence spending. Mitsotakis also stressed that this topic is frequently addressed at the European Council.

The Greek Premier was also asked about the government’s decision to ban children under 15 from accessing social media. He recalled that he first raised the issue 18 months ago at the UN General Assembly, emphasising that there is a link between increased use and mental health and children’s ability to concentrate and that the business model of these platforms is designed to capture their attention.