Greek Protests Against Israeli Cruise Reveal Global Divisions, Threaten Tourism and Stability

As an Israeli cruise ship docks at one Greek island after another, the welcome mat appears increasingly replaced by confrontation and unrest. Recent protests against the Crown Iris—an Israeli-operated vessel visiting Crete, Rhodes, and Syros—have escalated into clashes with riot police, pepper spray use, detentions, and sharp political messaging opposing Israel’s stance in Gaza. When Political Agendas Overshadow Tourism and Sovereignty The protests ostensibly call for an end to the conflict in Gaza but have morphed into demonstrations explicitly challenging Israel’s right to maritime access in friendly ports. In Agios Nikolaos on Crete, protesters unfurled massive Palestinian flags while shouting...