Cruise Ship with Israeli Passengers Diverts to Cyprus After Denied Entry to Greek Island
A cruise ship carrying Israeli travelers was redirected to Cyprus after being denied entry to the Greek island of Syros due to a dock-side demonstration opposing the conflict in Gaza.
Approximately 1,600 Israeli passengers aboard the Crown Iris were unable to disembark after over 300 protesters on the island signaled their opposition to Israel’s military actions and the situation in Gaza. A large banner reading "Stop the Genocide" was displayed alongside Palestinian flags during the protest.
The demonstrators also criticized Greece’s growing cooperation with Israel in economic, technological, and military fields. “As residents of Syros and as human beings, we are acting in hope of helping halt the devastation caused by this devastating conflict nearby,” their statement read.
Witnesses reported that some passengers responded by waving Israeli flags and shouting nationalistic chants.
Mano Maritime, the Israeli company operating the ship, confirmed the incident, stating: “Upon arrival at Syros, the ship faced a protest by pro-Palestinian demonstrators, and passengers were unable to leave the vessel.”
Greek authorities acknowledged that Israel’s foreign minister, Gideon Saar, spoke with Greece’s foreign minister, George Gerapetritis, about the situation, though no details of the discussion were disclosed.
In recent years, Greece has seen an increase in Israeli visitors, reflecting strengthened relations between the two Mediterranean countries.
No injuries or arrests were reported during the protest, but the event underscored growing unease in Greece regarding Israel’s role in Gaza. Signs supporting Palestinians and opposing Israeli policies have become more visible nationwide.
Read next
"UN rights officials call for leadership to label Israel's Gaza offensive as genocide"
Hundreds of UN Human Rights Staff Urge Leadership to Label Gaza Offensive as Genocide
A significant number of employees from the United Nations’ primary human rights body have endorsed an internal letter urging their leaders to recognize Israel’s military campaign in Gaza as genocide and to push member states
"Demonstrations break out in Indonesia after police car fatally strikes man"
Hundreds of Indonesians have gathered at locations across Jakarta to demonstrate following the death of a man struck by a law enforcement vehicle, marking the first major challenge for Prabowo Subianto’s administration, which took office nearly a year ago.
The victim, a motorcycle ride-hailing driver, was hit during clashes
"UN to halt Lebanon peacekeeping mission next year amid US, Israeli pressure"
The UN Security Council has extended the peacekeeping mission in Lebanon for another 16 months, though it will conclude by the end of 2026 following pressure from Israel and the US.
Council members unanimously approved the decision on Thursday to renew the mandate of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon