From Critic to Ally: Israel and Greece Draw Closer as Europe Divides

Greece, once among Israel’s fiercest European critics, is now turning to Israeli technology to protect its population and critical infrastructure. A defense agreement worth more than NIS 10 billion will bring an Israeli-designed air-defense system to the country.

The deal, signed Monday and dubbed Achilles Shield, marks a striking reversal in relations. For much of the last three decades of the 20th century, Greece stood alongside countries such as Spain and Ireland as a deeply hostile voice toward Israel. In 1982, Greece sent ships to Beirut to evacuate Yasser Arafat and thousands of PLO members, the editorial notes.

Now Greece is seeking protection from Israel as a frontline European power, a key NATO ally on the southeastern flank and an EU member. The decision comes as Ireland, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium and, by the end of the month, Britain are moving toward boycotts or restrictions targeting products from east Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria, and the Golan Heights. The editorial argues that uncertainty over the origin of Israeli products or components could lead to broader boycotts of Israel itself.

The contrast is especially sharp in the case of Ireland, which would not allow its new government jet to receive an Israeli-made system designed to help it land in fog. Greece, by contrast, is entrusting Israeli-made systems with the defense of its population and vital infrastructure.

The agreement will create a multilayered national network. David’s Sling will intercept ballistic missiles and heavy rockets, while SPYDER and BARAK MX will protect strategic sites from threats including drones and cruise missiles. MMR radars, Drone Dome counter-drone systems and a national command-and-control network will connect the defenses.

Greece watched Israel use its multilayered system against missiles, rockets and drones launched from Iran, Lebanon, Yemen, Gaza and elsewhere over the past three years. The purchase reflects not only the opposing political and strategic currents in Europe, but also the reach of Israel’s defense industry, the editorial says.