Pro-Palestinian Activists March Against Jews and Israelis in Thessaloniki, Greece

In Thessaloniki, Greece, dozens of pro-Palestinian activists recently held a march through the city center wearing black shirts emblazoned with Palestinian flags. The organizers described the event as an "anti-Zionist tour," aiming to protest the Israeli presence in Thessaloniki and oppose the city becoming a tourist destination for Israelis. This demonstration sparked significant public outrage and prompted a police investigation into potential hate speech or incitement to violence during the march.

The activists belong to the anarchist group Rubicon, and Greek authorities are currently examining whether any legal violations occurred. The Central Board of Jewish Communities in Greece (KIS) condemned the march, drawing parallels to antisemitic attacks in Thessaloniki 95 years ago, stating that organized groups dressed in black are once again instilling fear among Jews and Israelis. The World Jewish Congress also criticized the event, emphasizing its intent to intimidate Jewish people.

Greek police continue to investigate the circumstances and content of the march, with no charges filed yet. This incident follows recent security concerns in Greece, including warnings from Greek Civil Protection Minister Michalis Chrisochoidis after uncovering a Hamas terror cell targeting Israelis. The minister highlighted the risks posed to Israel-bound tourists amid heightened regional tensions.

The march and the broader security alerts underscore ongoing challenges faced by Jewish and Israeli communities in Greece, a popular Mediterranean tourist destination, amid rising pro-Palestinian activism and threats linked to regional conflicts.