Greece is closely monitoring the rapidly deteriorating situation in Iran and the wider Middle East, expressing profound concern over the ongoing hostilities. Athens calls for an immediate de-escalation, a swift return to diplomatic channels, and restraint to avert further risks to international peace and security.
The Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs stresses full adherence to international law, including the UN Charter, as the only path to lasting regional stability. Greece reiterates its long-standing worries regarding Iran’s nuclear program and ballistic missile activities, underscoring that comprehensive international oversight of both is vital to prevent proliferation and maintain peace.
Maritime security remains a top priority, with Athens urging all parties to avoid actions threatening freedom of navigation in key waterways. Protecting civilians and upholding international humanitarian law are non-negotiable imperatives.
Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis has maintained intensive contact with regional partners, allies, and EU counterparts, including through videoconference participation in the EU Foreign Affairs Council. He emphasized de-escalation, rigorous monitoring of Iranian programs, and European solidarity with Gulf states. A unified joint statement from all 27 EU members reinforced this position.
Evacuation and Citizen Protection Measures Activated
Greece has activated its Crisis Management Unit under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to support nationals in the affected region. Twelve dedicated emergency phone lines are operational around the clock, with embassies and consulates in high-alert status and in constant touch with Greek citizens abroad.
A comprehensive evacuation plan is ready for implementation, incorporating contingency options should prolonged travel restrictions persist. Repatriation efforts hinge on the reopening of regional airspace, which remains largely closed due to the conflict, preventing commercial or charter flights at present.
An estimated 15,000 Greek nationals reside in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where thousands have registered interest in potential repatriation—around 1,500 have formally requested assistance. In Iran, fewer than 100 Greeks are present, with no evacuation requests received so far. No repatriation flights are scheduled for today (March 4, 2026), but authorities assure that “no one will be left behind,” with citizen safety as the guiding principle.
Non-Involvement in Hostilities
Greece has firmly stated it is not participating in or supporting any military operations against Iran. Defensive support for Cyprus—including recent deployments of F-16 fighters and frigates—continues strictly in a protective capacity and unrelated to the broader conflict.
All measures reflect standard crisis protocols amid an unpredictable and volatile environment. To date, no direct communication has occurred between the Greek Foreign Minister and his Turkish counterpart on these developments.
This response aligns with Greece’s commitment to diplomacy, citizen protection, and regional stability amid the U.S.-Israel-Iran escalation and its spillover effects. For the latest updates, consult the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or emergency hotlines.