Israeli Family in Rhodes Stays Resilient Amid Greek Protests Over Gaza Conflict

The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a travel warning for Greece ahead of planned protests today against the Gaza war, urging Israeli citizens to exercise caution. Demonstrations are expected across multiple locations including Athens, Thessaloniki, various islands, and tourist centers. The ministry advised Israelis in Greece to avoid protest sites, minimize visibility of Israeli or Jewish symbols, and refrain from sharing real-time locations on social media.

Sima Amidan, an Israeli from southern Israel vacationing in Rhodes with her husband and three children aged 18, 15, and 10, shared that despite the warning, they have only slightly altered their plans by avoiding busy tourist spots and city centers. They arrived last Monday and plan to return to Israel tomorrow. Amidan emphasized their determination not to be intimidated, stating, "We do not fear, our strength is always within us, and this is not something that will threaten us."

The travel advisory highlighted a recent rise in hostility with antisemitic undertones toward Israelis and Jews worldwide, including Greece, manifesting in verbal harassment, threats, incitement, vandalism, and occasional physical attacks. However, Amidan reported no experience of antisemitism during their stay, describing the Greek locals as very kind and welcoming, with business owners even speaking Hebrew. She expressed confidence that their presence as tourists is appreciated and reiterated their resolve to remain undeterred by the protests or warnings.