Gerapetritis on Global Sumud Flotilla: Greece Did What It Had to Do

In a statement addressing a pertinent question from Zoi Konstantopoulou of Plevsi Eleftherias, Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis clarified Greece's position regarding the "Global Sumud Flotilla" incident. Minister Gerapetritis emphasized that the Greek government had no prior knowledge of the Israeli operation when it took place in international waters. He asserted that Greece acted responsibly and in accordance with international maritime law, facilitating the humanitarian disembarkation of 176 civilians from 34 nations who were detained on an Israeli vessel. This action, he stated, demonstrated Greece's consistent humanitarian stance. The Minister also noted that two individuals from the detained vessel continued their journey to Israel. Looking ahead, Gerapetritis affirmed Greece's readiness to provide humanitarian assistance, should any humanitarian organization require it, fulfilling its international duty. This incident, while unfolding in international waters, highlights Greece's role as a responsible actor in the region, balancing its international obligations with its commitment to humanitarian principles. The Greek perspective prioritizes adherence to international law and a proactive humanitarian approach, even when faced with complex geopolitical situations.

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Greece did what it was obliged to do. There was no possibility, according to the International Law of the Sea, for any further action, because it concerned international waters.