The Government Council for National Security is to convene for an emergency session at 6.30 pm local time on Saturday, chaired by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, following the latest developments in the Middle East.
“The Greek government is monitoring developments in Iran and the wider region of the Middle East closely and with concern,” a Greek foreign ministry announcement stressed.
Foreign Affairs Minister George Gerapetritis was in constant communication with his counterparts in allied countries over the events.
“It is common ground that control of the nuclear and ballistic missile program, so that Iran does not acquire a nuclear weapon, is a necessary condition for stability and peace in the region,” the announcement added.
The Greek foreign ministry urged that the protection of the civilian population, as well as respect for international law and the rights of citizens, must be a primary concern.
Particular care was being given to ensuring that freedom of navigation in the area is protected.
Consular assistance for citizens of Greece in the Middle East
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has activated the Crisis Management Unit to provide consular assistance to those in need, while Greek diplomatic missions in the disputed areas are on alert.
The ministry also announced that the emergency phone lines +30 2103681730 and +30 2103681350 (Cryptographic Service) have been activated in order to provide consular aid to Greek citizens who need it with respect to the situation in the Middle East, while Greek diplomatic missions in those areas are on standby.
“We urge Greek citizens to be especially cautious and to keep in contact with our embassies and consulates. If necessary, there will be a coordinated repatriation operation,” the announcement of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs concluded.