The arrival of Israeli tourists aboard the cruise ship Crown Iris in the port town of Agios Nikolaos, Crete, on Tuesday, sparked strong reactions from local residents, following similar protests on Rhodes and Syros earlier this month.
The Crown Iris, operated by Israeli company Mano Maritime, was carrying approximately 1,500 Israeli passengers as part of a regional tour departing from Haifa and visiting Rhodes and Agios Nikolaos before returning.
Agios Nikolaos, Crete. July 29, 2025 Photo: Antonis Zouridakis/Eurokinissi
Protesters gathered at the port to express solidarity with Palestinians and condemn the ongoing war in Gaza. Demonstrations began peacefully, but tensions escalated when police forces used tear gas to disperse the crowd. According to Greek public broadcaster ERT, three people were arrested during the unrest.
Authorities, anticipating potential conflict, had stationed police and Coast Guard units around the port. Demonstrators held banners, raised Palestinian flags, and demanded an end to what they described as “global silence” over the Gaza war.
Agios Nikolaos, Crete. July 29, 2025 Photo: Antonis Zouridakis/Eurokinissi
Despite the protests, the Israeli tourists were transported by bus to their destinations without direct incident. The ship was scheduled to depart later on Tuesday.
Agios Nikolaos, Crete. July 29, 2025 Photo: Antonis Zouridakis/Eurokinissi
This marks the latest in a series of protests across Greek islands opposing the presence of Israeli tourist amidst the ongoing war.
