Greece protests Israels deportation of Greek trade union delegation to Ramallah

Greece’s Foreign Ministry has summoned Israel’s ambassador to protest the deportation of a Greek trade union delegation invited to Ramallah by Palestinian officials, despite the group complying with all entry procedures and declaring their travel purpose. The ministry called the move “unjustified” and demanded an immediate explanation from Israeli authorities, who had assured the delegation’s entry before reversing the decision on Sunday.
The delegation, representing Greece’s largest labor confederation, was scheduled to meet Palestinian trade union leaders in Ramallah on Monday. Greek officials confirmed that all members had submitted the required documentation and disclosed their itinerary in advance. “The Israeli authorities’ decision contradicts their own assurances and undermines the principle of free movement for legitimate civil society representatives,” a ministry spokesperson said.
Israel has not yet issued a formal response, but local media cited unnamed officials claiming the delegation’s itinerary included meetings with groups designated as terrorist organizations by Israel. Greek authorities dismissed the claim as unfounded, noting that the delegation’s schedule had been shared with Israeli consular officials in Athens prior to departure.
The incident follows heightened tensions in the region after Israel’s recent military operations in the West Bank and Gaza. Greece, a vocal advocate for Palestinian statehood, has repeatedly criticized Israel’s settlement expansion and restrictions on Palestinian movement. The deportation comes just days after the European Parliament voted on new migration rules, which Greece opposed over concerns about deportation procedures.
Trade union leaders in Greece condemned the deportation as an attack on labor rights and international solidarity. “This sets a dangerous precedent for any delegation traveling to the region,” said a spokesperson for the Greek General Confederation of Labour. “We will pursue all diplomatic channels to ensure this does not happen again.”
The Greek Foreign Ministry has requested a written explanation from Israel within 48 hours and is considering further measures, including summoning additional Israeli diplomats. The incident is expected to dominate discussions at the upcoming EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting on July 15.
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1 further source not geolocated



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