Greece’s foreign ministry on Saturday said Athens is closely monitoring developments in Iran and the wider Middle East region, hours after US and Israeli strikes against Iran and retaliatory attacks by the latter.

The ministry activated a crisis management unit in order to provide consular assistance to those in need, while Greek diplomatic missions in the affected areas are on alert.

“We call on Greek citizens to exercise particular caution and to remain in contact with our Embassies and Consulates. If required, a coordinated repatriation operation will be carried out,” the announcement stated.

Athens was also focused on ensuring the protection of free navigation in the region, given the dozens of Greek-flagged and Greek-owned vessels plying the waters of the Persian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf of Oman.

“The Minister of Foreign Affairs is in constant communication with the foreign ministers of allied countries regarding the ongoing developments. It is widely acknowledged that control of the nuclear and ballistic program, so that Iran does not acquire a nuclear weapon, is a necessary precondition for stability and peace in the region,” the announcement read, adding:

“The protection of civilians, as well as respect for international law and citizens’ rights, must be a primary concern.”

The latest developments will be discussed at the extraordinary meeting of the top Government Council for Foreign Affairs and Defense (KYSEA) on Saturday afternoon.