Government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis on Monday addressed developments in the Middle East and Greece’s repatriation readiness. Photo source: General Secretariat for Communication and Information
The Greek government has confirmed that it is fully prepared to repatriate Greek citizens from the Middle East once airspace restrictions are lifted, as regional tensions continue to disrupt international flights.
Government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis said on Monday, March 2, that the Foreign Ministry is closely monitoring developments in Iran and the wider Middle East. Greek embassies in the region remain open and in constant communication with Greek nationals.
However, he underlined that as long as airspace in the region remains closed, “no flight can take place”. He urged citizens to follow official announcements published on the Foreign Ministry’s website, as well as updates issued by Greek diplomatic authorities abroad.
Marinakis noted that Qatar and the United Arab Emirates serve as major international travel hubs, which has resulted in Greek travelers becoming stranded not only in the affected countries but also in other destinations worldwide. He stressed that the disruption is impacting citizens of many countries.
“The Greek state ensures the safety of its citizens and remains in full readiness so that, once flight restrictions are lifted, our fellow citizens can return as a priority,” he said.
Emergency mechanisms activated
The Foreign Ministry has activated 12 emergency telephone hotlines to provide consular assistance to Greek citizens, three of which are dedicated exclusively to those in the United Arab Emirates. The ministry’s Crisis Management Unit has also been activated.
Official websites of the Foreign Ministry and Greek embassies and consulates in Iran and the broader region are being regularly updated with emergency contact numbers, registration platforms for repatriation requests, and related announcements.
Diplomatic coordination underway
Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis on Sunday, March 1, held a teleconference with the heads of Greek embassies and consulates in Iran and the Middle East to assess the situation on the ground.
During the meeting, the focus was placed on the safety, accommodation and repatriation requests of Greek citizens. Gerapetritis instructed diplomatic missions to ensure the immediate and safe return of those wishing to leave once air traffic resumes and called for full alertness and continuous communication with Greek nationals.
In addition, the National Council on Foreign Policy will convene on Wednesday, March 4, under the chairmanship of the foreign minister to discuss the latest developments in the Middle East.
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