Four Swastikas on the Way to the Gym: The Warning to Israelis in Greece

The Foreign Ministry issued a travel warning to Israelis in Greece ahead of the 'Day of Rage' and pro-Palestinian protests. Amit Kotler spoke about swastikas in Athens, anti-Israel graffiti, and a sense of discomfort, but noted that Israelis continue to travel as usual.

Ahead of the 'Day of Rage' and pro-Palestinian protests expected at dozens of locations in Greece, the Foreign Ministry issued an elevated caution recommendation for Israelis in the country. The recommendation includes instructions to stay away from protest sites, downplay Israeli and Jewish symbols, and avoid posting real-time locations on social media. Amit Kotler, an Israeli living in Athens, told 103FM about a 'surreal' situation: anti-Israel graffiti, Palestinian flags on walls, and at the same time masses of Israelis touring the city. Kotler noted that on his way to the gym he sees four swastikas, and that complaints to the municipality go unanswered. According to him, the protests are organized by 'very extreme Greeks' who are also opposed to their government, and the authorities, being in an election year, are not taking action to prevent them. He added that despite the unpleasant feeling, Israelis continue to travel, go to the islands, and shop in Greece, and have developed resilience over the past three years.