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Greece: Crete Wildfires Force 3,000 To Flee As Winds Turn Vacation Hotspot Into Hell

July 3, 2025, 4:35 am

Greek firefighters fought a raging wildfire on Crete on Wednesday, with the blaze burning through wooded lands and threatening houses and forcing residents and tourists to flee at least four villages.

The fire started in the afternoon within the Ierapetra municipality, on the southeastern coast of Crete. Spurred by strong winds, it spread rapidly and flared up repeatedly in various points, making it difficult to contain. At least 155 firefighters, with 38 fire engines and water tankers, had been sent to the scene, the fire brigade said. Reinforcements of personnel and aircraft were also being sent from Athens.

This is an extremely challenging fire and still very much active,” a spokesperson at the fire brigade said, citing both the fierce winds and rough terrain.

There were reports of some houses having been damaged, but there were no reports of casualties. Officially, Achlia and three other villages were evacuated by authorities. About 3,000 were evacuated to temporary camps established by local authorities.

Greece often has wildfires throughout its warm, dry summers, but authorities contend that climate change is making the fires hotter and more frequent.

Elsewhere in the country, unrelated wildfires were also raging. Firefighters were fighting a blaze on the island of Kythira and a another runaway fire in the north in the Chalkidiki region.

As firefighting crews pressed their work into the evening, Greek officials instructed residents and tourists in endangered areas to stay vigilant and obey evacuation warnings. The entire extent of the destruction is still under assessment.

Greece Battles Third Day Of Chios Wildfires As Villages Evacuate Amid State Of Emergency

June 25, 2025, 2:26 am

Wildfires continued to sweep through the Greek island of Chios for a third day in a row on Tuesday, triggering mass evacuations and straining firefighting crews as the area is kept under a state of emergency.

More than 400 firefighters, assisted by 14 helicopters and four waterbombing aircraft, were sent to fight numerous blazes on the north Aegean island. The fires have already ravaged vast tracts of forest and agricultural land, endangering local villages as well as the island’s critical agricultural output specifically the famous mastic trees for producing mastiha, a natural resin.

Efforts were focused around the village of Agios Giorgios Sikousis, where fire swept toward residential quarters. “The fire was near the houses,” said local resident Stamatis Zeonidis, adding that volunteers were instrumental in keeping it at bay.

Airplanes regularly bombed burning vegetation with water as dense smoke filled the skies. Crews also battled to preserve olive tree groves along the highway. “There are active fronts everywhere and many villages in jeopardy,” stated volunteer Antonis Mikoudis. “We quit work to assist. We think that we can still keep it under control.”

Another volunteer, Ioannis Psilos, called the experience “terrifying” but was optimistic that the blaze would not extend further south.

New evacuation warnings were issued for villages southwest of Chios Town, the island’s capital, as northerly winds continued to hamper containment efforts. “The situation remains critical,” an anonymous fire brigade official reported to Reuters.

Wildfires are a constant danger in Greece’s hot, arid summers, but authorities have blamed rising frequency and intensity of recent blazes on climate change. In anticipation of a projected harsh fire season, the Greek government has contracted a record 18,000 firefighters and budgeted hundreds of millions of euros for disaster aid and enhanced firefighting equipment.

Woman Killed in Greece After Holding Bomb That Exploded

May 3, 2025, 1:37 pm

A 38-year-old woman was killed in the early hours of Saturday when an explosive device exploded in her hands in Thessaloniki, a northern Greek city.

Police suspect that she was trying to place the device on an ATM outside a nearby bank at about 5 a.m. when the explosion happened. “It seems that she was with an explosive device and was going to place it a bank’s ATM,” a senior police official said to Reuters. “Something went wrong and detonated in her hands,” the official said.

The explosion damaged several storefronts and passing vehicles, police said.

Police indicated the woman had prior contact with the authorities for taking part in a string of robberies. Detectives are now investigating whether or not she was connected to militant left-wing groups.

Israel, Greece & Cyprus Strengthen Ties at Athens Summit

March 13, 2025, 11:20 pm

Athens hosted a high-level trilateral summit on Thursday, bringing together Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis, and Cypriot Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos. The meeting aimed to bolster the alliance between the three nations and enhance diplomatic cooperation.

Addressing Iran’s Nuclear Threat

One of the key topics discussed was the growing concern over Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Sa’ar emphasized that Iranian elements are more desperate than ever to acquire nuclear weapons, especially after Israeli military operations targeted Iranian proxies across the Middle East. He also briefed his counterparts on Israel’s recent airstrike in Damascus, which targeted an Islamic Jihad terrorist headquarters.

Commitment to Stronger Cooperation

During the summit, the three foreign ministers agreed to intensify coordination in several key areas:

Regular Consultations: Monthly discussions between the three ministers to address regional security and diplomatic matters.
Economic Collaboration: A committee comprising directors-general from the three foreign ministries will be established to enhance trade and investment.
Leadership Meeting: Plans are underway for a summit involving the leaders of Israel, Greece, and Cyprus to further strengthen political and economic ties.

A Strategic Partnership

The trilateral alliance between Israel, Greece, and Cyprus continues to evolve as they align on key security and economic interests. By fostering open dialogue and coordination, the three nations aim to contribute to greater stability in the Eastern Mediterranean region.

Protests Erupt In Greece As Government Faces No-Confidence Vote Over Train Disaster

March 6, 2025, 3:21 am

Police vs. protesters fought in Athens on Wednesday over the 2023 train crash which killed 57 people, majority of whom were students, representing Greece’s deadliest rail disaster.

Thousands of protesters first marched peacefully outside parliament, where legislators debated a no-confidence vote against the center-right government. Protesters paid tribute to the victims by releasing lanterns and candles in the shape of “57” before the violence broke out. Police dispersed protesters using tear gas as the city descended into chaos.

The no-confidence motion, scheduled for Friday, was tabled by opposition MPs who blamed Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ administration for ignoring railway safety, shirking responsibility, and covering up evidence for the tragedy. In spite of growing criticism, the government, which controls 156 of 300 seats in parliament, is likely to weather the motion.

Mitsotakis cautioned that political unrest would hurt Greece amid tough global circumstances. He vowed to renovate the rail network by 2027 and hire a foreign company for its maintenance. But many Greeks view the disaster as an emblem of years of infrastructure abandon.

As public fury mounts, additional protests are set before the vote. In the meantime, parliamentarians voted to open an investigation into the activities of Christos Triantopoulos, a previous minister who stands accused of mishandling the post-crash reaction. Triantopoulos quit his position as deputy civil protection minister in order for the inquiry to go forward, denying wrongdoing.

An autonomous body, the Air and Rail Accident Investigation Authority (HARSIA), recently concluded that the accident was caused by continuing safety lapses. Investigators further indicated that incompetence and carelessness caused vital evidence from the site of the accident to be destroyed.

A court inquiry into the accident is scheduled to conclude this year, with victims’ relatives still clamoring for justice and political accountability.

Santorini Shaken: Greece Plans To Build Escape Port As Quake Fears Mount

February 17, 2025, 9:01 pm

Greece will set up an evacuation port on the island of Santorini to facilitate safe exits in the event of a more powerful earthquake, Civil Protection Minister Vassilis Kikilias said on Monday.

Since late January, tens of thousands of small tremors have shaken the tourism favorite island, forcing thousands of people to leave, suspending construction, and causing school shutdowns on Santorini and surrounding islands. Although no substantial damage has occurred, seismologists say that the current activity is unprecedented even for earthquake-prone Greece. Specialists have not excluded the probability of stronger quakes.

Weaknesses in the main ferry port of Santorini, which is located at the foot of a hillside, have been pinpointed by authorities but not deemed to be unusable in an emergency. In order to provide more backup readiness, a temporary evacuation port will be built until permanent port facilities are established, according to Kikilias.

“In addition to the new port being built, it was decided to create an emergency escape port where ferries carrying passengers can moor in case of necessity,” Kikilias explained to Greek TV station ANT1.

Even as tremors subsided at the weekend, local authorities extended emergency restrictions for a third straight week on Sunday, asking residents and tourists to stay away from coastlines and cliffside landslides.

Seismologist Costas Papazachos, a spokesperson for the Santorini earthquakes, warned that the crisis is far from over. “Authorities and residents must prepare for an uncomfortable period that could last another two to three months,” he told public broadcaster ERT.

Santorini, shaped by a massive volcanic eruption around 1600 BC, is experiencing seismic shifts due to moving tectonic plates and underground magma, which have caused subsurface layers to rise, scientists say.

Greece on High Alert: Santorini Hit by Series of Earthquakes

February 7, 2025, 12:31 pm

The Greek government announced a state of emergency in the island of Santorini Wednesday after almost an entire week of continuous undersea earthquakes. The strongest quake occurred late Wednesday at 5.2 magnitude. It is also the most powerful recorded since January 31, when the first seismic activity happened.

The earthquake epicenters are mainly located between the islands of Santorini, Anafi, Amorgos, and Ios. Due to ongoing tremors, thousands of seasonal workers and residents have evacuated to the Greek mainland via ferry.

Government’s Emergency Response

Associated Press reported that various emergency services are responding to Santorini. A government official said, “Fire departments, police, coast guard, armed forces, and emergency medical services have immediately reinforced Santorini and surrounding islands with additional personnel and specialized equipment.”.

Experts have cleared the rumoured speculation that the shockwaves were caused by volcanic activities in the Aegean Sea. However, scientists are not optimistic concerning the possibility of a more powerful earthquake. As reported by Vassilis K. Karastathis, a seismologist and director of research at the National Observatory of Athens, “We are not yet in a position to say that we are seeing any evidence that would lead to the sequence slowly coming to a conclusion. We are still somewhere in the middle of the road. We haven’t seen any easing, any sign that it’s heading towards a regression.

Earthquakes Shake Santorini: Over 11,000 Flee As Earthquakes Continue To Shake Island

February 5, 2025, 10:03 pm

Thousands of residents have evacuated Santorini after a series of earthquakes hit the island for four consecutive days. According to officials, over 11,000 people have left, while 7,000 have taken ferry and 4,000 by air.

The island has seen hundreds of tremors. The strongest so far was a magnitude 5 earthquake on Tuesday. There have been no major structural damages reported, but schools were closed and large indoor gatherings are restricted. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis requested the residents to stay calm.

Seismologists are reported to be on red alert. Its head, Efthymis Lekkas of the Earthquake Planning and Protection Organisation, said, “A magnitude 6 or higher cannot be ruled out at this moment.” Director of the Geodynamic Institute of Athens Vasilis Karastathis said that the frequency and strength were causing concern.

In addition, authorities have deployed 51 firefighters, nine vehicles, a fire department helicopter, and aerial rescue personnel to Santorini to further strengthen emergency response efforts. Additional personnel have been stationed in Amorgos, Ios, Astypalaia, and Anafi because of increased seismic activity across the Cyclades.

In response to evacuations, the government asked Aegean Airlines to operate nine emergency flights. Authorities also refused access to several high-risk areas, such as Ammoudi, Armeni, Korfos Thirassias, and the Old Port of Fira. Meanwhile, schools in neighboring islands including Mykonos, Leros, Syros, and Patmos are shut down until at least Friday.

Santorini is part of the Hellenic Volcanic Arc, but since the 1950s, it has not seen a major eruption. However, scientists say that the tremors from this sort of tectonic activity and not due to volcanic unrest. Earthquakes are unpredictable, but being part of a fault line makes the area particularly vulnerable to experiencing seismic events.

Former Greek PM Costas Simitis, Architect Of Greece’s Euro Entry, Passes Away At 88

January 5, 2025, 3:10 pm

Former Greek Prime Minister Costas Simitis, who took Greece into the European Union’s single currency, the euro, died on Sunday at the age of 88. He died at his summer home in the Peloponnese, Greek media reported.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis took to Twitter to express his condolences, calling Simitis “a worthy and noble political opponent” and honoring his role in Greece’s national progress.

Simitis, a co-founder of the Socialist PASOK party, came to power in 1996 after Andreas Papandreou resigned. His premiership is characterized by important achievements, such as Greece’s adoption of the euro in 2001, the successful bid for the 2004 Athens Olympic Games, and significant infrastructure improvements.

However, Simitis was criticized about a debt-for-debt deal that made transparency about Greece’s finances questionable. He stepped down in 2004 from the party leader post to enable George Papandreou to step in. Years later, he sounded the warning that Greece’s financial collapse would occur, just in time before an IMF bailout in 2010.

Simitis was born in 1936 to politically active parents and studied law, economics, and politics in Europe before entering Greek politics. He leaves behind his wife and two daughters.

How Greece Is Tackling Social Media Overuse Among Minors

December 30, 2024, 9:22 pm

Greece has unveiled an ambitious initiative to tackle internet addiction among minors by introducing a national strategy aimed at curbing excessive social media use. As the first step in this plan, the country launched a dedicated website on Monday, offering user-friendly guides and instructions for implementing parental control features.

During an event marking the launch, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis emphasized the societal responsibility of safeguarding children’s well-being. He expressed skepticism about the practicality of an outright ban on social media, instead highlighting the need for apps to be designed with the needs of children and teenagers in mind.

The Greek government outlined that the strategy seeks to address increasing concerns over children’s overuse of social media and the internet. Its core objectives include enhancing parental controls, implementing age verification measures, and fostering collaboration with social media platforms.

Three-Phase Implementation Plan

The Greek government plans to implement the strategy in three phases, starting with the launch of the first phase on Monday. Next year, it aims to introduce a digital wallet application designed to function as both a parental control tool and an age verification system.

Parental Control Platform: An advanced portal was launched on Monday, providing parents with tools to monitor and manage their children’s online activities effectively.

Kids Wallet System: In the upcoming phase, the government plans to introduce a “kids wallet” system within the next three months. This innovative tool will feature built-in applications and automated age authentication rules to ensure appropriate online access, as reported by the Greek City Times.

International Cooperation: In the subsequent phase, Greece is expected to implement legislative measures in partnership with European counterparts and major tech companies to regulate online content and strengthen protections for minors.

Age of Digital Adulthood

On December 18, during a high-level inter-ministerial meeting on the issue, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis reportedly emphasized the importance of defining an age for “digital adulthood,” tentatively set at 15 years.

Greece’s Minister of Digital Governance, Dimitris Papastergiou, underscored the pressing need to combat internet addiction among the youth. “Our children are growing up in a simulated world. As a government, we must stand by parents. The real issue here is internet addiction, and we must tackle it with decisive action,” he stated, as reported by the Greek City Times.

With this initiative, Greece joins a growing list of countries—including the United States, France, the United Kingdom, and Australia—that are introducing measures to help young people develop healthier relationships with technology.

DG DIA’s Visit to Greece to Enhance Defence Collaboration

December 9, 2024, 4:05 pm

Lieutenant General DS Rana, the Chief of the Defence Intelligence Agency (DG DIA), to be on a two-day official visit to Greece from December 10 to 11, 2024. This pivotal mission will enhance defense partnerships and foster strategic alliances between two nations.

During his visit, Lieutenant General Rana will interact with Greece’s high-ranking military officials, including Vice Admiral Christos Sasiakos, the Deputy Chief of Defence, along with important directors from the Hellenic National Defence General Staff. These meetings are set to enable a strong dialogue on common security issues.

Another key highlight of the visit will be Lieutenant General Rana’s involvement in a think-tank dialogue organized by the Institute of International Relations. This platform will provide a chance to discuss important defense and strategic topics with subject matter experts. Moreover, he is set to meet with India’s Ambassador to Greece, Mr. Rudrendra Tandon, to talk about bilateral defense projects and investigate opportunities for closer cooperation.

“The trip highlights India’s steadfast dedication to strengthening defence connections with Greece,” a high-ranking official stated, stressing its importance in tackling mutual security issues.

Central to the dialogues will be the sharing of intelligence and perspectives, essential for addressing modern threats and improving mutual comprehension. With this visit, India aims to reinforce its commitment to developing a partnership that corresponds with changing global security dynamics.

Lieutenant General Rana’s visit represents not only a progress in defense diplomacy but also a mutual aspiration for a safer, more secure future.

Greek Police Officer Arrested For Aiding Global Cocaine Ring, Lavish Lifestyle Uncovered

November 29, 2024, 5:18 pm

A Greek police officer has been arrested for allegedly aiding an international cocaine trafficking network by leaking confidential investigation details and helping cover up illicit activities. Two additional suspects are also in custody, according to Greek police.

The arrests stem from a months-long investigation initiated with intelligence provided by France and Europol. Authorities used data from encrypted communications on Sky ECC, a messaging platform previously utilized by criminal networks. Analysis of these communications by law enforcement in France, Belgium, and the Netherlands played a crucial role in identifying the suspects.

Europol has noted that platforms like Sky ECC and EncroChat, both now defunct, were widely used by organized crime groups. The dismantling of EncroChat has so far led to over 6,500 arrests, according to a Europol statement from June 2023.

The three suspects in Greece face charges including forming a criminal organization, drug trafficking, and bribery. The main suspect, a 42-year-old former member of the anti-narcotics unit, is accused of receiving monthly payments from the gang. Greek police reports suggest he maintained a luxurious lifestyle, allegedly funded by the criminal network involved in smuggling cocaine and cannabis into Greece.

In addition to the arrests, two other Greek police officers are under investigation for allegedly assisting the drug trafficking operation. Authorities are continuing their inquiries into the extent of the criminal network’s reach and the involvement of law enforcement personnel.

Greece Negotiates 2 Billion Euro Defence Deal with Israel for ‘Iron Dome’-Like System

November 15, 2024, 1:44 pm

Greece is negotiating with Israel to develop a €2 billion ($2.11 billion) anti-aircraft and missile defence system as part of its efforts to modernize its military. Greek officials revealed on Thursday that this move is part of a broader strategy to upgrade its armed forces following years of economic challenges.

Inspired by Israel’s Iron Dome

The proposed defence system would be modeled on Israel’s Iron Dome and similar advanced systems. These intercept short- and long-range missiles during attacks, offering a robust defence against aerial threats. Greece sees this collaboration as a way to bolster its security amid regional tensions, particularly given the ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon.

Keeping Pace with Regional Dynamics

Greece aims to strengthen its military to stay on par with its NATO ally and historic rival, Turkey. Despite recent improvements in their relations, Turkey continues to develop its air defence systems. A source close to the matter noted, “The plan is to create a multi-layer anti-aircraft and anti-drone system.” Discussions with Israel are already underway, the source confirmed.

Significant Investments in Military Modernization

A second Greek official stated that the deal would contribute to Greece’s broader military upgrade, which requires an estimated €12.8 billion investment by 2035. This defence initiative forms part of a 10-year plan, which also includes the purchase of up to 40 F-35 fighter jets and drones from the United States, as well as four Belharra frigates and Rafale jets from France.

Transitioning to Modern Capabilities

Defence Minister Nikos Dendias emphasized the urgency of modernizing Greece’s military. “Our effort is for a quick transition of our armed forces to the 21st century,” he stated during a closed-door briefing. Greece currently relies on US Patriot systems and aging Russian S-300 systems to secure its airspace.

Ongoing Tensions with Turkey

Although relations with Turkey have slightly improved, Greece remains cautious. The two countries have unresolved disputes over maritime boundaries, energy resources, and airspace in the eastern Mediterranean. These persistent tensions underscore Greece’s drive to fortify its military capabilities in the face of potential threats.

Big Travel Shift In Europe: November Brings End To Passport Stamps

September 2, 2024, 1:25 pm

This week in travel news brings a mix of surprises, innovations, and tips just in time for Labor Day weekend. From an accidental first-class ticket megadeal to changes in European travel regulations, here’s everything you need to know.

EU Passport Stamps

For travelers who cherish the tradition of collecting passport stamps, the European Union’s new automated Entry/Exit System (EES) will mark the end of an era. Starting November 10, the familiar inky passport stamp will be replaced with a digital system in the 29 countries of the Schengen Area. This move is separate from the ETIAS visa waiver program, which has been postponed to the first half of 2025. ETIAS will require non-EU travelers to pay a €7 entry fee, valid for three years.

Get Your European Travel Fix

If you’re nostalgic for the soon-to-be-obsolete passport stamp, now might be the perfect time to plan a European getaway. Italy offers the epitome of relaxation with its southern gems like Naples, Ischia, Puglia, and the Amalfi Coast. British photographer Lucy Laucht has captured this essence in stunning photographs that showcase the art of unwinding, Italian-style.

For those who prefer a more architectural experience, Budapest’s Gresham Palace stands as the grandest hotel in Hungary, offering breathtaking views of the River Danube. Meanwhile, if you’re considering a longer stay, the town of Götene in Sweden is offering land at jaw-droppingly low prices, starting at just 1 krona (9 US cents) per square meter.

Aviation News: First-Class Windfall and Best-Connected Airport

In a surprising turn of events, an airline mistakenly offered a huge discount on first-class tickets, with around 300 passengers snagging deals at 85% off. While the airline scrambled to address the blunder, the lucky travelers celebrated their unexpected windfall.

On the other side of the globe, an airport in Southeast Europe has been named the world’s best-connected, with over 300 direct flights to unique destinations. This rapid rise is even more impressive considering the airport only opened its doors in 2018.

I Can’t Believe It’s Not Greece

Mongolia is home to one of Asia’s best-kept secrets—Khyargas Lake, a stunning destination that could easily be mistaken for a Greek paradise. Located in western Mongolia, this remote spot offers a peaceful retreat far from tourist crowds, though it does require a three-day drive from the capital.

Meanwhile, in Abu Dhabi, a new Anantara luxury resort is turning heads with its Santorini-like architecture. The white domes and crystal-blue waters might make you think you’re on a Greek island, but this oasis is actually nestled at the edge of the desert.

Whether your next trip takes you to Europe, Asia, or the Middle East, make sure to check out these 45 best-selling travel accessories recommended by CNN Underscored.

Spotlight on Duluth, Minnesota

As the U.S. prepares for an unseasonably warm fall, Duluth, Minnesota, stands out as a perfect destination. Nestled on the shores of Lake Superior, Duluth offers cooler temperatures and a wealth of outdoor activities like hiking, bird-watching, and kayaking. The city’s vibrant music, art scene, and craft industries add to its charm, making it one of CNN Travel’s top U.S. towns to visit in 2024.

Greece’s Main Opposition Syriza Condemns 6-Day Work Week, Calls It “Unacceptable”

July 10, 2024, 12:44 am

Athens: Greece’s main opposition party Syriza declared on Tuesday that the recent implementation of a six-day working week for specific companies was a “disgrace”.

The policy was enacted by Greece’s right-wing ruling New Democracy party in early July.

Since the late 2000s financial crisis, Greece has encountered a scarcity of skilled workers, prompting many young people to seek better opportunities abroad.

However, the policy has drawn significant domestic and international scrutiny for diverging from the trends in many Western countries, where there is ongoing debate about implementing a four-day work week to enhance productivity.

“Such things are unacceptable. The government must understand that this policy has consequences,” said Syriza spokesperson Voula Kehagia on private television channel Skai.

Kehagia remarked that the policy “shamed the country” by “ridiculing it abroad.”

The six-day working week applies exclusively to specific companies, including those operating around the clock, seven days a week.

Employees will receive a minimum of 40 percent additional pay for their work on the sixth day. Government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis underscored on Facebook that the measure aims to meet “emergency needs” with “qualified personnel.”

Athens stated that the initiative aims to tackle undeclared labor and alleviate labor shortages worsened by a declining population. Despite Greece having the longest average working week in the European Union at 39.8 hours last year, their productivity was below the EU average, as reported by Eurostat.

German Hiker Becomes 6th Casualty Amid Soaring Temperatures in Greece

June 25, 2024, 3:39 am

A German hiker has tragically been discovered deceased on the island of Crete, according to a statement from the fire department, marking another casualty in Greece amid unusually high summer temperatures.

The 68-year-old man had been reported missing on Sunday and was found near a ravine in the southern region of the island, inaccessible by helicopter, requiring rescuers to transport his body on foot.

This incident is the sixth fatality among foreign tourists in June across popular Greek islands. Earlier this month, BBC TV presenter Michael Mosley was found deceased on Symi. An 80-year-old Belgian man was also found dead near Lato in eastern Crete, followed by a 55-year-old Dutch man found in his car on a cliff edge in the southeast of the island. Additionally, a 74-year-old Dutch man was discovered deceased on Samos, and a 55-year-old American man near Corfu.

Further, two French women aged 73 and 64 remain missing on Sikinos, while a 59-year-old American man visiting Amorgos has been unaccounted for since mid-June.

The Greek public health authorities have issued warnings about the dangers of heat exposure this month, advising against outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day. Greece saw its earliest recorded summer heatwave between 11th and 13th June, with temperatures surpassing 40°C (104°F) in many regions. High temperatures near 40°C were also reported across various parts of the country last week.

Tourists In Greece Vanishing And Dying: Is Heat To Blame?

June 19, 2024, 7:17 pm

In Greece, a troubling trend has emerged as tourists continue to go missing and are later found deceased. The question arises: could extreme heat be a contributing factor to these incidents? This concern stems from the pattern of disappearances and deaths occurring during the scorching summer months in Greece.

One key aspect to consider is the country’s geographical features, which include rugged terrains and vast expanses of natural beauty. While these landscapes attract tourists seeking adventure and exploration, they also present challenges, especially during periods of intense heat.

The combination of high temperatures and challenging terrain can lead to exhaustion and dehydration, potentially putting tourists at risk, especially if they are not adequately prepared or informed about the local conditions.

Authorities and experts are grappling with this issue, trying to understand the complexities involved. It’s not just about the heat itself but also about how tourists adapt to and cope with these conditions. Factors such as age, health status, and physical fitness can significantly influence one’s ability to withstand extreme heat.

Furthermore, the impact of climate change cannot be ignored. Rising temperatures worldwide are altering weather patterns and increasing the frequency and intensity of heat waves.

This global phenomenon has repercussions on tourism destinations like Greece, where heat-related incidents may become more common if proactive measures are not taken.

Efforts are underway to address these challenges, including raising awareness among tourists about the risks associated with extreme heat and providing guidance on how to stay safe while enjoying Greece’s attractions.

However, it remains a complex issue with no easy solutions, highlighting the need for ongoing research, collaboration, and proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of tourists visiting Greece during hot weather periods.

American Tourist Found Deceased In Greece Due To Heat Wave

June 18, 2024, 8:01 pm

Recently, Greece faced a series of tragic tourist deaths and disappearances during a severe early heatwave. These incidents highlight the dangers of high temperatures especially for people participating in outdoor activities like hiking. The heatwave is exceeding 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) of temperatures. It started to happen with the start of the summer vacation period in Greece which lead to multiple deaths and search missions in popular tourist spots nationwide.

On the island of Mathraki, a 55-year-old American tourist was discovered deceased near a beach which marked the third tourist death in just a week. Similarly, on the island of Symi, British TV presenter Michael Mosley’s body was found after he went missing during a solo hike in scorching temperatures. His case underscores the dangers of hiking in high heat without adequate preparation.

More tragic incidents include the death of a 74-year-old Dutch tourist on Samos and the discovery of two deceased hikers on Crete. These events have led Greek authorities to intensify their search efforts and emergency responses, involving police, fire departments, and volunteers using drones and rescue dogs.

The situation has also prompted ongoing searches for two French women aged 73 and 64 on Sikinos, as well as a 59-year-old American policeman on Amorgos. They went missing while hiking in extremely hot weather conditions.

Petros Vassilakis, spokesperson for the police in the Southern Aegean pointed out a commonality in these incidents that the tourists are hiking in extremely hot weather. He also stressed the need for caution and proper preparation when exploring Greece’s remote beaches, historic sites, and mountain paths, especially during periods of intense heat.

The bodies of the deceased tourists have been taken to larger islands like Corfu for autopsies to determine the exact causes of death. Greek authorities are continuing extensive search operations to find the missing individuals and prevent further tragedies.

The recent incidents in Greece highlight the need for tourists to be more aware and take safety precautions during the summer. With high temperatures and many visitors exploring Greece’s natural and cultural attractions, authorities advise staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous activities in the hottest part of the day, and prioritizing safety.

These tragedies underscore the importance of being cautious and prepared when enjoying Greece’s various landscapes, ensuring a safe and responsible experience for all visitors.

Qatar Airways Passengers ‘Strip Off’ and Faint Due to Broken Air Conditioner

June 15, 2024, 3:53 pm

Passengers aboard a Qatar Airways flight from Athens, Greece to Doha endured extreme heat for over three hours after the aircraft’s air conditioning system malfunctioned. Reports indicate that the technical failure caused passengers to sweat profusely, with some even removing their clothes to cope with the heat.

A video shared by sports massage therapist Garth Collins showed Damian Collins, a Muay Thai fighter on the flight, visibly sweating while passengers behind him tried to fan themselves and stay hydrated.

Garth expressed concern, stating, “Damian Collins, while they held on board @qatarairways flight QR204 for 3.5 hours with the doors closed, no air cooling, and zero sustenance, people were passing out, and panic ensued.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Garth Collins (@granitebodies)

Garth also shared additional videos showing passengers struggling with the heat and attempting to cool themselves with inflight magazines. Eventually, passengers were allowed to disembark and return to the terminal building at Athens International Airport to await further instructions.

The delayed flight arrived in Doha around 10:30am on Tuesday, after originally being scheduled to land at 6:20pm on Monday.

A Qatar Airways spokesperson apologized for the delay, attributing it to a technical issue and stating, “Qatar Airways sincerely apologises for the delay to passengers travelling on flight QR204 from Athens (ATH) to Doha (DOH) on Monday 10 June 2024, which was due to a technical issue.”

Years after Transitioning To Green Energy, Greece Bets Big On American Gas

June 1, 2024, 5:28 pm

Initiated a decade ago, Greece’s energy transition has been extremely swift. From mountainous ridgelines to arid islands covered in wind turbines, green energy today provides nearly two-thirds of the Mediterranean’s energy needs. But now, Greece is deliberately pivoting back toward fossil fuels, not to burn at home. It has claimed that it can become one of Europe’s main suppliers of natural gas, with much of it shipped from the United States. In the coming years, nearly a trillion and a half dollars will be siphoned into constructing pipelines and terminals, as per Global Energy Monitor. According to the New York Times, twenty per cent of that spending is in Europe.

Natural gas is a climate threat in two ways. Burning it produces carbon dioxide, the main greenhouse gas warming the world. Large but unknown quantities of it also leak into the atmosphere unburned, where it has highly potent but shorter-term planet-warming effects. Notably, the United States is the largest supplier of gas. And despite the aforementioned concerns, Greece is pushing to become a new hub for American gas exports in Europe.

What is Greece getting in the deal?

Greece gets billions of dollars of heavily subsidized gas infrastructure in this arrangement, but the bigger payoff is political, not financial. The country positions itself as central to European energy security, and it plays a key role in the West’s strategy to isolate Russia. American gas companies will make the real money.

India, Greece sign MoU towards enhancing cross-border payments using UPI

February 29, 2024, 5:17 pm

Just a week after Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis visited India, a major Greek bank Eurobank and NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL), a subsidiary of National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) towards using the UPI platform for cross-border payments.

The official joint statement issued on Thursday reads, “The understanding is aimed at revolutionising the process of international money transfers, with a specific focus on streamlining remittances from Greece to India.”

“The MoU was signed at the Embassy of Greece in New Delhi by Ritesh Shukla, CEO of NIPL, and Fokion Karavias, CEO of Eurobank, in the presence of Kostas Fragogiannis, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Greece, Maira Myrogianni, Secretary General for International Economic Affairs of Greece and Chairperson, Enterprise Greece, and Sanjay Tugnait, President and CEO of Fairfax Digital Services,” the statement added.

This lays the foundation for a major strategic alliance where both nations can take part to enhance quick and seamless transactions using the UPI interface.

PM Modi: India, Greece to sign migration, mobility partnership

August 25, 2023, 7:23 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Greek counterpart, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, will sign an agreement on migration and mobility partnerships, as well as cooperate to strengthen bilateral trade connections.

PM Modi informed about the development on the social media platform, ‘X’, and said, “PM @kmitsotakis and I agreed that our trade ties need to become even stronger. We have also decided to work on a migration and mobility partnership agreement in the coming times. We will also work towards deepening ties between our educational institutions.”

According to the 2011 Greek census, there are 11,333 Indians in Greece. According to a Ministry of External Affairs report released on August 9, 2023 on India-Greece ties, they are currently estimated to be between 13000-14000.

They have lived in various locations of Greece for many years and are primarily from Punjab and Sikhs. The majority of Indians work on farms, in factories, or in construction.

Many Indian employees who did not have the necessary documents after a certain duration of time obtained stay permits during various periods of amnesty given by the Greek government.

PM Modi on having a conversation with his Greek counterpart, PM further posted, “Held very fruitful talks with @PrimeministerGR @kmitsotakis in Athens. We have decided to raise our bilateral relations to a ‘Strategic Partnership’ for the benefit of our people. Our talks covered sectors such as defense, security, infrastructure, agriculture, skills and more.”

The two leaders also held one-on-one and delegation-level conversations. During the discussion, Prime Minister Modi offered his condolences for the loss of life and property in Greece’s tragic forest fires.

PM Modi began his tour to Greece today by paying his respects at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Athens. Later, he was presented with a ceremonial guard of honor. India and Greece have civilizational links that have grown stronger in recent years as a result of cooperation in areas such as maritime transport, defense, trade and investment, and people-to-people ties.

PM Modi arrives in Greece on the first prime ministerial visit in 40 years

August 25, 2023, 10:20 am

On the invitation of his Greek counterpart Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Greece on Friday for the first time. In the last 40 years, PM Modi is the first Indian prime minister to travel to Greece. In 1983, India’s last prime minister paid a visit to Greece. On arrival, PM Modi was welcomed with a formal reception. From Johannesburg, South Africa, where he was attending the BRICS summit, PM Modi flew to Athens.

“Prime Minister Narendra Modi has just arrived here from Johannesburg after attending the 15th BRICS summit,” Official Spokesperson, Ministry of External Affairs, Arindam Bagchi also posted a video on X.
Bagchi said, “A packed day of engagement lie ahead in Athens. He will little later lay a wreath at the tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Thereafter, he will meet the president of Greece and then hold talks with the Prime Minister of Greece.”
“He will also meet with business leaders from both sides. Before departing, he will have an interaction with the community who are all excited to receive him after the success of the Chandrayan mission,” he said.

Outside the Athens hotel where PM Modi will stay during his one-day official visit to Greece, members of the Indian diaspora gathered. Upon PM Modi’s arrival, they could be seen with tricolors in their hands and placards praising him. Former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi visited the nation in 1983. Kyriakos Mitsotakis, the prime minister of Greece, traveled to New Delhi in 2019. PM Modi will meet with President Katerina Sakellaropoulou during his visit to Greece. PM Modi will meet with his Greek counterpart, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, and the two leaders will talk about how to strengthen their bilateral relations.

Inside Mira Rajput And Shahid Kapoor’s Greece Diaries

July 10, 2023, 9:41 am

One of the most adorable lovebirds in B-town, Shahid Kapoor and Mira Rajput never misses a chance to set couple goals. Recently, Mira turned photographer for Shahid on their vacation in Greece and shared a sun-kissed picture of her husband on social media.

Taking to Instagram Stories, Mira posted a series of pictures from her Greece diaries but one picture that caught our attention was Shahid posing with a beautiful backdrop.

In the frame, Shahid struck a pose in her comfy white t-shirt and shorts that he teamed up with his colour-blocked shoes.

Donning a pair of sunglasses and carrying a heavy beard look and messy hair.

Sharing the photo, Mira wrote, “Ay ay.”

Mira also looked beautiful in a green schiffli mid-length dress. She opted for a minimal makeup look. She carried a black hat and matching footwear for boating in the sun.

On Friday, the couple celebrated their 8th wedding anniversary. They also posted special posts on Instagram to mark the occasion.

Shahid shared an adorable picture with Mira from their vacation and captioned it, “In a sky full of stars …. I gave you my heart … go on and tear me apart … you will only find you in my heart (pl don’t kill me cause I made up my version of your fav song) happy anniversary my wife for life.”
In the picture, Shahid and Mira could be seen sharing a kiss and donning casual outfits.

While Mira dropped a mushy picture from their vacation.

In the photo, Mira can be seen giving a peck on one of Shahid’s cheeks.
Shahid and Mira are keeping their fans updated by sharing their vacation glimpses.

Mira took to Insta Story and posted a window selfie with Shahid. She also gives us a glimpse of the beautiful view. Mira wore a white outfit and dark sunglasses, while Shahid opted for casual wear.

Shahid and Mira got married on July 7, 2015, in an intimate wedding in Delhi. The duo had an arranged marriage. They are doting parents to daughter Misha and son Zain. Misha was born in 2016 while Shahid-Mira welcomed Zain in 2018.

Meanwhile, on the work front, Shahid was recently seen in the action thriller film ‘Bloody Daddy’. Helmed by Ali Abbas Zafar, the film streamed on the OTT platform JioCinema. Along with this, he will be soon romancing Kriti Sanon in a yet-to-be-titled film, which Amit Joshi and Aradhana Sah are helming.

Greece: Two Pakistanis arrested for plotting a terrorist attack at a Jewish restaurant

March 29, 2023, 1:20 pm

According to the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), the two arrested Pakistani nationals were part of an Iranian terror network.

The Israeli espionage agency Mossad and Greek police are said to have worked together to thwart an alleged plot to carry out a massive terror attack in Greece targeting Israelis and Jews.

According to the Times of Israel, Greek police arrested two Pakistani nationals on Tuesday who were allegedly planning the attack. According to the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), the two arrested Pakistani nationals were part of an Iranian terror network.

“The affair that was uncovered in Greece is a severe case that was successfully thwarted by the Greek security forces. It was an additional attempt by Iran to perpetrate terrorism against Israeli and Jewish targets abroad”, the Israeli PMO said.

“After the start of the investigation of the suspects in Greece, the Mossad rendered intelligence assistance in unravelling the infrastructure, its work methods and the link to Iran.

“The investigation revealed that the infrastructure that operated in Greece is part of an extensive Iranian network run from Iran and spanning many countries”, it added.