PM Mitsotakis: Israel’s attack on Lebanon is counterproductive

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis described the bombing of civilians in Lebanon by Israel amid the agreed ceasefire between U.S. and Iran as “counterproductive”. At the same time, he stressed the strategic partnership between Greece and Israel.

In an interview with CNN and journalist Christiane Amanpour late on Wednesday, Mitsotakis 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

At the same time, he pointed out that “Greece has a strategic partnership with Israel but 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 noted that Greece had co-signed a joint statement welcoming the ceasefire and expressed hope that it would lead to lasting peace.

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 tolls and called 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 defense, 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 defense pillar, not to the detriment of NATO, which remains an Alliance that depends heavily on the US.

The Greek Premier emphasized that Europe must take on its share of the responsibility by increasing defense spending. Mitsotakis also stressed that this topic is frequently addressed at the European Council.

PS “Counterproductive” is a most diplomatic phrase to use when men, women, children and elderly are being bombed and torn apart but he justified himself with the “‘strategic partnership with Israel”, thinking he could escape criticism or something…