Greek premier set to visit Israel

By Ahmet Gencturk

ATHENS (AA) – Greece’s premier is set to visit Israel, a top official announced on Tuesday evening.

“The important thing is for everyone to understand that Greece has a role to play,” State Minister Akis Skertsos told public broadcaster ERT while announcing the visit, but without giving any details.

The Palestinian group Hamas is responsible for the ongoing conflict, he said, adding that Israel has the right to legitimate self-defense.

“Greece supports the right to legitimate self-defense and Israel's right to live in security. This was disputed by the attack by Hamas,” Skertsos said, referring to the Oct. 7 attack which began the current conflict, but which Hamas says was in response to moves by Israel and Israeli settlers.

He stressed that the conflict should not be allowed to widen into a regional one.

“I think serious diplomatic efforts are being made both at the European level and by the United States to prevent this,” Skertsos said.

He added that dialogue should be maintained with Arab leaders to protect civilians in Gaza.

The fighting began on Oct. 7 when Hamas initiated Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, a multi-pronged surprise attack that included a barrage of rocket launches and infiltrations into Israel by land, sea, and air. It said the incursion was in retaliation for the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and growing violence by Israeli settlers.

The Israeli military then launched Operation Swords of Iron against Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip.

More than 4,400 people have been killed in the armed conflict, including at least 3,001 Palestinians and more than 1,400 Israelis.​​​​​​​