Two Israeli Youths Detained in Greece After Helping Israelis in Altercation

Liam Maman and Yonatan Koren, two Israeli youths about to enlist in the military, were arrested in Crete, Greece, after assisting a group of Israelis involved in a fight. The incident occurred in Malia, a popular destination for young Israelis. The two had stayed in their hotel room on the night of the incident but heard Hebrew shouting and let the group into their room for safety. The group had been targeted after singing "El El Israel" and faced anti-Israel hostility outside a local venue.

According to Yonatan's mother, Einav, the youths did not anticipate trouble and believed they were helping. After the altercation, the two informed their families they were safe and went to sleep. However, the next morning, a hotel maid found a crowbar left behind by one of the Israelis they had sheltered, took a photo, and alerted the police. Over ten officers then stormed the room and arrested Liam and Yonatan on suspicion of possessing a weapon, despite the crowbar not belonging to them.

Both mothers traveled to Greece to support their sons and hired a local lawyer. The families have launched a crowdfunding campaign to cover the substantial legal expenses. They remain focused on securing the release of Liam and Yonatan and their return to Israel.