Greece’s KYSEA (Government Council for Foreign Affairs and Defense) is concerned about the potential of an Iranian retaliation to the U.S. strike, including the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. However, at this stage, no can predict how long such a closure might last or what its impact would be on the global economy.

Currently, around 250 Greek-owned vessels are present in the Strait of Hormuz, and the Greek Ministry of Shipping is issuing continuous safety alerts to the shipping community.

Any closure of the Strait of Hormuz would have great disruptions, as 20% of the world’s oil supply passes through the Strait.

From the outset of the crisis, Athens has made its concern clear, with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis repeatedly stressing the urgent need for a diplomatic resolution to de-escalate tensions.

Security Forces on Standby

Meanwhile, Greek security forces have been placed on high alert for possible provocations or terrorist attacks against embassies, airports, ports, and other potential domestic targets.

Migration Alert

An alarm has also been raised over migration flows. In the past two days alone, 1,000 migrants crossed into Greece from Libya. Should this trend continue, authorities warn that the situation could soon become unmanageable.

Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis is expected to visit Libya in the near future to hold discussions not only on maritime zones but also on migration.

Migration flows from Libya are among the key issues the foreign minister plans to raise at today’s EU Foreign Affairs Council.

Concerns Mount After Damascus Church Attack

Tensions have also escalated following the terrorist attack on the Greek Orthodox Church of Prophet Elias in Duwaila, Damascus, which left at least 20 dead and 52 injured. There are fears that if such attacks continue, they could spark a new wave of migration from Syria.

Official Government Response

In a statement issued after the KYSEA meeting, government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis highlighted the administration’s deep concern: “What is needed most right now is restraint and the resumption of dialogue to avoid further escalation,” the statement read.

It added that Greece’s longstanding position is that Iran must not acquire nuclear weapons and that the solution must be found through diplomacy. Greece’s top priority remains the safety of its citizens in the region.

The statement also noted that the Greek government, through the Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy, has taken “necessary steps to inform the maritime community, recommending that ships flying the Greek flag or owned by Greek interests and located near the Strait of Hormuz remain in safe harbor until the situation stabilizes.”