Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis is set to appear before parliament on Thursday to answer questions regarding the Global Sumud Flotilla incident and the continued detention of two Greek nationals in Istanbul.

The parliamentary briefing comes amid political scrutiny over Greece’s handling of the flotilla case and diplomatic contacts that followed the incident.

Greece defends humanitarian response

A first official account of Greece’s response was provided on Wednesday by Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lana Zochiou during a briefing with diplomatic correspondents.

According to the ministry, Greece acted on humanitarian grounds and in accordance with international law by receiving 176 foreign nationals who had participated in the flotilla.

Greek authorities said the individuals, who were citizens of European Union member states and other countries, were transported to Greece and were free to return to their home countries afterward.

The Foreign Ministry stressed that Greece’s priority was to avoid escalation while ensuring the safety and protection of those involved.

No prior coordination with Israel, says Athens

Responding to questions regarding possible coordination with Israel, the Greek Foreign Ministry stated that there had been no prior agreement with Israeli authorities before the incident.

Officials said communication with Israel took place only afterward and focused exclusively on the disembarkation of the 176 foreign nationals.

The ministry also argued that Greece acted under the framework of international maritime law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

According to the spokesperson, the vessel involved had not docked at a Greek port, while the transfer of passengers in Crete was carried out using Greek Coast Guard resources.

Athens reiterated its support for full respect of international law, including maritime and humanitarian law.

Israeli minister thanked Greece

The Greek Foreign Ministry also addressed remarks reportedly made by Israel’s foreign minister referring to coordination with Greek authorities.

Athens clarified that the communication took place after the incident, adding that Israel’s foreign minister thanked Greece for agreeing to receive the foreign nationals.

The ministry underlined that Greece consistently raises issues related to international law and human rights both bilaterally and within the European Union framework.

Update expected on detained Greek nationals

Gerapetritis is also expected to provide further information regarding two Greek tourists who remain in custody in Istanbul.

The case became public shortly after Easter and concerns two Greek citizens arrested inside the Hagia Sophia after displaying a Greek flag featuring Byzantine-era symbols and the slogan “Orthodoxy or Death.”

The Greek Foreign Ministry confirmed on Wednesday that the two individuals remain detained, while Greece’s Consulate General in Istanbul is in contact with them and providing consular assistance.

Following his parliamentary appearance, Gerapetritis is scheduled to travel to Thessaloniki to participate in a political conference and meetings with local officials.