Athens Mayor, Israeli Envoy Spar Over Antisemitic Graffiti Amid Gaza War Tensions
ATHENS — A diplomatic row has erupted between the mayor of Athens and Israel’s ambassador to Greece over allegations of inaction on antisemitic graffiti in the Greek capital, set against the backdrop of growing global outrage over the war in Gaza, as reported by AFP.
Israeli Ambassador Noam Katz, in an interview with Kathimerini published Sunday, claimed that Israeli tourists have felt “uncomfortable” in Athens due to visible antisemitic graffiti. He accused city officials of failing to remove hate-filled messages and of being reluctant to act against “organized minorities” responsible for the defacement.
Mayor Haris Doukas responded sharply, posting on X (formerly Twitter): “We do not take lessons in democracy from those who kill civilians.” He defended Athens as a city of tolerance and free expression, insisting that the municipality regularly removes offensive graffiti and condemns racism and violence in all forms.
“It is revolting that the ambassador focuses on graffiti that is clearly removed, while an unprecedented genocide is taking place in Gaza,” Doukas added, referencing Israel’s military actions in Gaza, which have killed over 60,000 people according to Palestinian officials.
Greece has seen multiple pro-Palestinian demonstrations since the start of the war in Gaza in October 2023. Israeli cruise ships docking at Greek ports have been met with protests.
While Greece previously leaned toward pro-Arab policies, ties with Israel have grown since 2010, especially in defense and energy cooperation. Yet tensions have resurfaced amid the Gaza conflict, even as Israeli travel to Greece has increased. According to Mayor Doukas, the number of Israelis obtaining Greek residency by purchasing property rose by 90% in the past year.
The diplomatic spat highlights deepening divisions in Europe over the Gaza crisis and rising antisemitism concerns.
