Greece Signs Defense Deal With Israel, Then Pledges Support to Lebanon

Greece has found itself in a complex diplomatic position, signing a significant defense agreement with Israel on Monday, only to publicly express support for Lebanon's stance against Israeli military presence shortly thereafter. The Greek President, Konstantinos Tsoulas, met with Lebanese President Michel Aoun in Athens. During the meeting, Aoun reiterated Lebanon's position, stating that Israel must fully implement a prior agreement and that a military solution is not viable, emphasizing Lebanon's desire for peace after suffering from war.

Following this, at a joint press conference with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Aoun urged Greece to continue supporting the Lebanese army and called for the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory. He expressed a desire for a strategic partnership between Lebanon and Europe.

In response, President Tsoulas affirmed Greece's support for Lebanon during these "difficult and sensitive times." He also stated that signing the agreement with Israel, with whom Greece has direct ties, would strengthen Lebanon's sense of independence and prosperity. This statement appears contradictory to the immediate context of Lebanon's demands.

The defense deal between Greece and Israel, valued at approximately 3 billion euros (over 10 billion shekels), involves Israel establishing a multi-layered air defense system for Greece, a project codenamed "Achilles Shield." The Greek Prime Minister's office also tweeted about the meeting with the Lebanese President, highlighting the deep ties between the two nations and the intention to deepen their relationship.