The Greece police claims that they have arrested two Pakistani nationals. According to the Greek police, these two Pakistani nationals were reportedly members of a group that was planning an attack against an Israeli restaurant in the city of Athens in Greece.

Greece averts terror attack on Israel intel; arrests two Pakistani nationals | WION Dispatch

<p>Greek officials said on Tuesday (March 28) that two Pakistanis accused of planning to target Israelis in Athens have been arrested, news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A "terrorist" network has also been dismantled, the officials said further adding that the network had "already chosen the target of the attack" and was even planning how to carry it out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel accused Tehran of being behind the plot as the Jewish state said it was a fresh attempt by Iran "to promote terror against Israeli and Jewish targets abroad".&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by AFP, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said referring to Israel's national intelligence agency that "after the investigation of the suspects in Greece, the Mossad helped untangle the intelligence of the network" and also its operational methods and "ties to Iran".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As part of the investigation, it emerged that the infrastructure in Greece was part of a broad Iranian network, operated from Iran toward many countries," a statement said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Greek police spokeswoman Konstantina Dimoglidou told AFP that the "mastermind" of the cell is "a Pakistani who lives outside Europe".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The news agency quoted a police source, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, as saying that the person lived in Iran.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Lisbon stabbing: 2 women killed at Ismaili Muslim centre&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>A police statement said: "After coordinated actions by the Greek police and the National Intelligence Service, a terrorist network was dismantled which, from abroad, was planning strikes against carefully selected targets on Greek territory."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Greek police sources told the news agency AFP that officers had arrested two Pakistanis, aged 27 and 29, of Iranian origin. They claimed that they were planning attacks on Israelis in central Athens.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Greek officials said on Tuesday (March 28) that two Pakistanis accused of planning to target Israelis in Athens have been arrested, news agency AFP reported. A "terrorist" network has also been dismantled, the officials said further adding that the network had "already chosen the target of the attack" and was even planning how to carry it out.

Greek officials said on Tuesday (March 28) that two Pakistanis accused of planning to target Israelis in Athens have been arrested, news agency AFP reported. A "terrorist" network has also been dismantled, the officials said further adding that the network had "already chosen the target of the attack" and was even planning how to carry it out. Israel accused Tehran of being behind the plot as the Jewish state said it was a fresh attempt by Iran "to promote terror against Israeli and Jewish targets abroad". As quoted by AFP, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said referring to Israel's national intelligence agency that "after the investigation of the suspects in Greece, the Mossad helped untangle the intelligence of the network" and also its operational methods and "ties to Iran". "As part of the investigation, it emerged that the infrastructure in Greece was part of a broad Iranian network, operated from Iran toward many countries," a statement said. Meanwhile, Greek police spokeswoman Konstantina Dimoglidou told AFP that the "mastermind" of the cell is "a Pakistani who lives outside Europe". The news agency quoted a police source, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, as saying that the person lived in Iran. WATCH | Lisbon stabbing: 2 women killed at Ismaili Muslim centre × A police statement said: "After coordinated actions by the Greek police and the National Intelligence Service, a terrorist network was dismantled which, from abroad, was planning strikes against carefully selected targets on Greek territory." Greek police sources told the news agency AFP that officers had arrested two Pakistanis, aged 27 and 29, of Iranian origin. They claimed that they were planning attacks on Israelis in central Athens. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Greek police arrest two Pakistanis planning attacks on Israelis in Athens, dismantle 'terrorist network'

Greece has received three artefacts belonging to one of its ancient temples. A special ceremony was held to celebrate their return from the Vatican. The repatriation augments Greece's efforts in seeking the return of its sculptures from the British museum.

Greece: Three ancient artefacts return, fragments belong to Parthenon temple in Athens

The anger is growing among the public over the deadly train collision in Greece. Demonstrations have been held in several cities and towns. At some places, protesters have also clashed with the police.

Europe: Protests in Greece's Athens over deadly train collision which killed 57

Greece’s most famous landmark, the Acropolis, was blanketed in snow after a cold front moved into the country, bringing the first winter snowfall to the Athens capital.

Athens receive season's first snowfall

18 of 350 artworks owned by Greek tycoon Dimitris Daskalopoulos are on display in the capital Athens. It's the last time that many of them will be seen in the Greek Capital. The large-scale installations will be given away to Major Art Galleries around the world including the Guggenheim in New York.

Greece: International museums to get artworks, exhibition to bring together artists

Greece is bracing for a wildfire season. A wildfire was reported in an Athens suburb. However, no casualties were reported.

Greece: Wildfire in Athens suburb, no casualties reported

In pics - Greece evacuates outskirts of Athens after wildfire threat

<p>Hundreds protested against migrant pushbacks and border violence in&nbsp;Athens&nbsp;on Sunday, after Turkish allegations that Greece's border policy led 19 migrants to freeze to death last week. &nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Greek police, around 700 people marched from Omonia Square at the centre of&nbsp;Athens&nbsp;to Syntagma Square in front of the Greek parliament.</p>

<p>They carried a life raft resembling the ones allegedly used by Greek authorities to push back asylum seekers from Greek territory, an AFP photographer said. &nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">At a protest against pushbacks &amp; border violence in central Athens ppl hold a replica of a life raft like the ones documented as being used to push back asylum seekers from Greek territory, as well as signs about Turkey not being a safe country for ppl to stay in. <a href="https://t.co/0ZRMzOAnA8">pic.twitter.com/0ZRMzOAnA8</a></p>
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<p>Protesters, who gathered after a call of leftist and anti-racist groups, shouted slogans against "the assassination of migrants at the border" and held banners reading "Stop pushbacks and border violence".&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Syntagma Square they observed a minute of silence for the migrants who lost their lives.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-sending-troops-to-start-war-with-russia-in-europe-says-usa-451046"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;'Not sending troops to start war' with Russia in Europe, says USA</strong></a></p>

<p>Last week, Turkey said it found 19 frozen bodies close to the Greek border, accusing Greece of allowing the migrants to die in the winter cold after stripping them of their clothes and forcing them back across the border.</p>

<p>Human rights groups believe such actions, reported by migrants in different parts of the world, are designed to discourage fleeing people from trying to enter a particular country, and to look for a different route.</p>

<p>Greece's Migration Minister Notis Mitarachi did not dispute the deaths but dismissed Turkey's version of events as "false propaganda".</p>

<p>"These migrants never made it to the border. Any suggestion they did, or indeed were pushed back into Turkey is utter nonsense," Mitarachi said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-country-in-europe-becomes-the-first-to-make-covid-vaccine-compulsory-450756"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;This country in Europe becomes the first to make Covid vaccine compulsory</strong></a></p>

<p>Turkey regularly accuses Greek officials of illegally pushing back migrants into its territory, but&nbsp;Athens&nbsp;denies the claims.</p>

<p>Greece in turn claims Turkey is turning a blind eye to people trying to reach Europe via its border in violation of a 2016 deal between Ankara and the EU.</p>

<p>The agreement, which has been extended, sees the bloc provide billions of euros in aid to Ankara in exchange for Turkey agreeing to host millions of Syrian and other refugees.</p>


Hundreds protested against migrant pushbacks and border violence in Athens on Sunday, after Turkish allegations that Greece's border policy led 19 migrants to freeze to death last week.

Hundreds protested against migrant pushbacks and border violence in Athens on Sunday, after Turkish allegations that Greece's border policy led 19 migrants to freeze to death last week. According to Greek police, around 700 people marched from Omonia Square at the centre of Athens to Syntagma Square in front of the Greek parliament. They carried a life raft resembling the ones allegedly used by Greek authorities to push back asylum seekers from Greek territory, an AFP photographer said. At a protest against pushbacks & border violence in central Athens ppl hold a replica of a life raft like the ones documented as being used to push back asylum seekers from Greek territory, as well as signs about Turkey not being a safe country for ppl to stay in. pic.twitter.com/0ZRMzOAnA8 — Katy Fallon (@katymfallon) February 6, 2022 × Protesters, who gathered after a call of leftist and anti-racist groups, shouted slogans against "the assassination of migrants at the border" and held banners reading "Stop pushbacks and border violence". In Syntagma Square they observed a minute of silence for the migrants who lost their lives. Also read | 'Not sending troops to start war' with Russia in Europe, says USA Last week, Turkey said it found 19 frozen bodies close to the Greek border, accusing Greece of allowing the migrants to die in the winter cold after stripping them of their clothes and forcing them back across the border. Human rights groups believe such actions, reported by migrants in different parts of the world, are designed to discourage fleeing people from trying to enter a particular country, and to look for a different route. Greece's Migration Minister Notis Mitarachi did not dispute the deaths but dismissed Turkey's version of events as "false propaganda". "These migrants never made it to the border. Any suggestion they did, or indeed were pushed back into Turkey is utter nonsense," Mitarachi said. Also read | This country in Europe becomes the first to make Covid vaccine compulsory Turkey regularly accuses Greek officials of illegally pushing back migrants into its territory, but Athens denies the claims. Greece in turn claims Turkey is turning a blind eye to people trying to reach Europe via its border in violation of a 2016 deal between Ankara and the EU. The agreement, which has been extended, sees the bloc provide billions of euros in aid to Ankara in exchange for Turkey agreeing to host millions of Syrian and other refugees.

Athens: Hundreds of people protest against migrant pushbacks and border violence

A strong explosion has rocked the Greek capital of Athens. The explosion has damaged buildings and cars on the street. Several eyewitnesses explain and recount the horrific encounter.

Greece: An explosion in Athens damages buildings & cars, eyewitness recount the horror

<p>Greek capital of Athens was rocked by an explosion that led to a fire. Officials and eyewitnesses were quoted to say that the explosion took place in early hours of Wednesday (January 26). One person was injured and several buildings were extensively damaged due to explosion and fire.</p>

<p>Giorgos Mathiopoulos, the head of workers at the National Centre for Emergency Care told Skai TV that the person who suffered burns was taken to hospital.</p>

<p>Windows of the buildings were smashed due to the blasts and even facades were damaged. The damage took place along the major traffic artery of Syngrou Avenue.</p>

<p>Syngrous Avenue links the city centre to the southern suburbs. Buildings up tp 200 metres (656 ft) away were damaged.</p>

<p>Debris littered the street a day after a severe snowstorm swept the capital disrupting traffic and stranding thousands of people.</p>

<p>At least 18 firefighters used seven engines to battle a blaze at one buildings and have nearly brought it under control, the fire brigade said.</p>

<p>It was not immediately clear what triggered the blast or the fire, officials said.</p>

<p>"We have a fire, there was a blast before that," said a fire brigade commander at the scene.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Greek capital of Athens was rocked by an explosion that led to a fire. Officials and eyewitnesses were quoted to say that the explosion took place in early hours of Wednesday (January 26).

Greek capital of Athens was rocked by an explosion that led to a fire. Officials and eyewitnesses were quoted to say that the explosion took place in early hours of Wednesday (January 26). One person was injured and several buildings were extensively damaged due to explosion and fire. Giorgos Mathiopoulos, the head of workers at the National Centre for Emergency Care told Skai TV that the person who suffered burns was taken to hospital. Windows of the buildings were smashed due to the blasts and even facades were damaged. The damage took place along the major traffic artery of Syngrou Avenue. Syngrous Avenue links the city centre to the southern suburbs. Buildings up tp 200 metres (656 ft) away were damaged. Debris littered the street a day after a severe snowstorm swept the capital disrupting traffic and stranding thousands of people. At least 18 firefighters used seven engines to battle a blaze at one buildings and have nearly brought it under control, the fire brigade said. It was not immediately clear what triggered the blast or the fire, officials said. "We have a fire, there was a blast before that," said a fire brigade commander at the scene. (With inputs from agencies)

Explosion in Athens causes extensive damage to buildings

<p>Pope Francis flew towards Athens on Saturday for the first visit by a pontiff in two decades, with the Greek capital under high security over anti-papal sentiment among Orthodox hardliners.</p>

<p>The pope's trip will see him return on Sunday to the island of Lesbos, which he last visited in 2016 during the early years of the migration crisis.</p>

<p>His plane took off on Saturday morning from Cyprus, where he spoke out about the suffering of migrants, and is expected to arrive in Athens at 11 am (0900 GMT).</p>

<p>His visit to the Greek capital is the first by a pope since John Paul II in 2001, which in turn was the first papal visit to Athens since the 1054 Schism between the&nbsp;Catholic and Orthodox Churches.</p>

<p>Francis is seeking to improve historically difficult relations with the Orthodox Church while also highlighting the plight of thousands of refugees and asylum seekers in Greece.</p>

<p>"I ardently long to meet you all, all, not only Catholics, but all of you," he said in a message before embarking on his trip, which began on Thursday with the two-day visit to Cyprus.</p>

<p>"By meeting you, I will quench my thirst at the springs of fraternity."</p>

<p>Francis on Saturday will meet Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and the head of the Church of Greece Archbishop Ieronymos.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-boris-johnson-reported-to-police-over-christmas-parties-held-during-2020-lockdown-434048"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;UK PM Boris Johnson reported to police over Christmas parties held during 2020 lockdown</strong></a></p>

<p>He is then scheduled to see members of Greece's small Catholic community, which represent just 1.2 percent of the majority-Orthodox population.</p>

<p>"The Holy Father's presence in Greece is a boost for us... Catholics in Greece must take advantage of it," Markos Foscolos, parish priest of St Nicholas on the island of Tinos, told reporters this week.</p>

<p>Francis flies back to Rome on Monday.</p>

<p><strong>'Loud' protests</strong></p>

<p>Up to 2,000 police will be deployed in Athens to monitor possible disruptions by Orthodox hardliners, who blame the Catholics for the Schism and the 1204 sacking of Constantinople during the Fourth Crusade.</p>

<p>"They will be few, but loud," predicted Petros Panagiotopoulos, a theologian at Aristotle University in Thessaloniki.</p>

<p>Relations with the Church of Greece are much better than they were ahead of John Paul's visit, Pierre Salembier, head of the&nbsp;Jesuit Catholic&nbsp;community in Greece, told AFP.</p>

<p>But he said there were still some "known anti-Catholic fanatics" within the Church's governing body.</p>

<p>The bishop of Piraeus called the pope's visit "immoral", according to the union of Orthodox journalists.</p>

<p><strong>'Open arms'</strong></p>

<p>During his visit to Cyprus, Francis condemned "slavery" and "torture" in migrant camps, drawing parallels with World War II.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Cyprus government said Friday that 50 migrants, including two Cameroonians stuck for months in the divided island's buffer zone, will be relocated to Italy thanks to Francis.</p>

<p>On Sunday the pope will again visit Greece's Lesbos, a flashpoint of the 2015 refugee crisis and thereafter, "as a pilgrim to the wellsprings of humanity" to call for the integration of refugees.</p>

<p>The island's sprawling Moria migrant camp, which the pontiff visited in 2016, burnt down last year and has been replaced by a new EU-funded facility.</p>

<p>The new Mavrovouni camp is part of a series of "closed" facilities on Greek islands with barbed wire fencing, surveillance cameras, X-ray scanners and magnetic gates that are closed at night.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/11-us-govt-employees-phones-hacked-using-nso-groups-spyware-say-reports-434000"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;11 US govt employees’ phones hacked using NSO Group’s spyware, say reports</strong></a></p>

<p>NGOs and aid groups have raised concerns about the new camps, arguing that people's movements should not be restricted.</p>

<p>Thirty-six groups active in Greece this week sent a letter to the pope, drawing his attention to the rights of people in the camps and asking for his help in halting illegal pushbacks of migrants allegedly carried out by Greek border forces.</p>

<p>The pontiff is expected to visit the camp and will meet two "randomly chosen" families, an official said.</p>

<p>"We await him with open arms," said Berthe, a Cameroonian asylum seeker at the camp.</p>

<p>She said she hoped the pope "will pray for us to help us overcome the insecurities we have lived, through faith."</p>

<p>On Wednesday, nearly 30 asylum seekers landed near the camp. On Friday, two migrants died when a speedboat overturned near the Greek island of Kos.</p>


Pope Francis flew towards Athens on Saturday for the first visit by a pontiff in two decades, with the Greek capital under high security over anti-papal sentiment among Orthodox hardliners.

Pope Francis flew towards Athens on Saturday for the first visit by a pontiff in two decades, with the Greek capital under high security over anti-papal sentiment among Orthodox hardliners. The pope's trip will see him return on Sunday to the island of Lesbos, which he last visited in 2016 during the early years of the migration crisis. His plane took off on Saturday morning from Cyprus, where he spoke out about the suffering of migrants, and is expected to arrive in Athens at 11 am (0900 GMT). His visit to the Greek capital is the first by a pope since John Paul II in 2001, which in turn was the first papal visit to Athens since the 1054 Schism between the Catholic and Orthodox Churches. Francis is seeking to improve historically difficult relations with the Orthodox Church while also highlighting the plight of thousands of refugees and asylum seekers in Greece. "I ardently long to meet you all, all, not only Catholics, but all of you," he said in a message before embarking on his trip, which began on Thursday with the two-day visit to Cyprus. "By meeting you, I will quench my thirst at the springs of fraternity." Francis on Saturday will meet Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and the head of the Church of Greece Archbishop Ieronymos. Also read | UK PM Boris Johnson reported to police over Christmas parties held during 2020 lockdown He is then scheduled to see members of Greece's small Catholic community, which represent just 1.2 percent of the majority-Orthodox population. "The Holy Father's presence in Greece is a boost for us... Catholics in Greece must take advantage of it," Markos Foscolos, parish priest of St Nicholas on the island of Tinos, told reporters this week. Francis flies back to Rome on Monday. 'Loud' protests Up to 2,000 police will be deployed in Athens to monitor possible disruptions by Orthodox hardliners, who blame the Catholics for the Schism and the 1204 sacking of Constantinople during the Fourth Crusade. "They will be few, but loud," predicted Petros Panagiotopoulos, a theologian at Aristotle University in Thessaloniki. Relations with the Church of Greece are much better than they were ahead of John Paul's visit, Pierre Salembier, head of the Jesuit Catholic community in Greece, told AFP. But he said there were still some "known anti-Catholic fanatics" within the Church's governing body. The bishop of Piraeus called the pope's visit "immoral", according to the union of Orthodox journalists. 'Open arms' During his visit to Cyprus, Francis condemned "slavery" and "torture" in migrant camps, drawing parallels with World War II. The Cyprus government said Friday that 50 migrants, including two Cameroonians stuck for months in the divided island's buffer zone, will be relocated to Italy thanks to Francis. On Sunday the pope will again visit Greece's Lesbos, a flashpoint of the 2015 refugee crisis and thereafter, "as a pilgrim to the wellsprings of humanity" to call for the integration of refugees. The island's sprawling Moria migrant camp, which the pontiff visited in 2016, burnt down last year and has been replaced by a new EU-funded facility. The new Mavrovouni camp is part of a series of "closed" facilities on Greek islands with barbed wire fencing, surveillance cameras, X-ray scanners and magnetic gates that are closed at night. Also read | 11 US govt employees’ phones hacked using NSO Group’s spyware, say reports NGOs and aid groups have raised concerns about the new camps, arguing that people's movements should not be restricted. Thirty-six groups active in Greece this week sent a letter to the pope, drawing his attention to the rights of people in the camps and asking for his help in halting illegal pushbacks of migrants allegedly carried out by Greek border forces. The pontiff is expected to visit the camp and will meet two "randomly chosen" families, an official said. "We await him with open arms," said Berthe, a Cameroonian asylum seeker at the camp. She said she hoped the pope "will pray for us to help us overcome the insecurities we have lived, through faith." On Wednesday, nearly 30 asylum seekers landed near the camp. On Friday, two migrants died when a speedboat overturned near the Greek island of Kos.

For the first time in two decades, Pope Francis flies to Athens for papal visit

<p>In&nbsp;Athens' parliament square, the Evzones parade under their red berets and stifling heat.</p>

<p>With sweat beading on their foreheads, the presidential guards rehearse their choreography in front of a cluster of tourists as a new&nbsp;heatwave&nbsp;hits&nbsp;the Greek capital.</p>

<p>"They're amazing, but they must be suffering," says Jim Grace, an Irish tourist who, holding a bottle of water, watches them under the scorching sun.</p>

<p>"We're adapting," says his wife Esther Grace. "We're drinking lots of water and putting on sunscreen."</p>

<p>Dubbed a "dangerous" event due to how long it will last and the small difference between maximum and minimum temperatures, the&nbsp;heatwave&nbsp;is expected to peak on Monday, with temperatures likely reaching 42 to 44 degrees Celsius (107 to 111 degrees Fahrenheit).</p>

<p>It's the second one this year, part of a trend of more frequent heatwaves and rising average temperatures that prompted the municipality of&nbsp;Athens&nbsp;to appoint a climate officer earlier this month to try and mitigate the heat.</p>

<p><strong>'There are solutions'</strong></p>

<p>On Monastiraki Square, Alexandra Holarou drags her cart full of sweets through tourists trying on caps and straw hats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I'm going to die in this heat," she says.</p>

<p>Her face red, the 60-year-old shopkeeper sets up a parasol but "there are not many options to protect oneself," she says.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's hard, very hard to work in these conditions."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-place-is-safe-reveal-scientists-amid-unprecedented-heatwave-in-parts-of-us-and-canada-395939"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;No place is safe, reveal scientists amid unprecedented heatwave in parts of US and Canada</strong></a></p>

<p>Passers-by stay close to the walls in search of shade and air conditioning that blasts out from shops.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The café terraces are oases where water misters and fans are running at full speed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We weren't really prepared," confesses Frenchman Nicolas Deshayes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We left this morning from Paris where it was 15 degrees."&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Eleni Myrivili,&nbsp;Athens' climate officer, tells AFP the situation will only worsen if nothing is done.</p>

<p>"By 2050, the number of rainy days will have dropped by 12 percent and the temperature will have risen by 2.5 degrees," she says.</p>

<p>But she adds "there are solutions" such as developing green spaces in a city that looks like a sea of concrete, helping vulnerable people and raising public awareness.</p>

<p>"We need to rethink the public space as a whole because the consequences affect the health of our population and the economy of our country," she says.</p>

<p>"There are more workplace accidents with the rise in temperatures and people go to shops less."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Second&nbsp;heatwave&nbsp;of the summer&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Greece has already experienced a&nbsp;heatwave&nbsp;earlier this summer, when temperatures reached 44 degrees Celsius for 11 days.</p>

<p>According to data from the National Observatory of&nbsp;Athens, this was the fifth longest&nbsp;heatwave&nbsp;in Greece in 40 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"These climatic phenomena are becoming more and more frequent," Konstantinos Lagouvardos, the observatory's director of meteorological research, says.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Beyond the heatwaves, the most worrying thing is that average temperatures are rising considerably summer after summer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The average for&nbsp;Athens&nbsp;is now 34-35 degrees, which is two degrees higher than in previous years," he says.</p>

<p>"This is already the second&nbsp;heatwave&nbsp;of the summer, a third would be an unprecedented event."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Several municipalities have opened air-conditioned shelters for the homeless and vulnerable.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Piraeus, at a short distance from the port where tourists escape to the islands, about 15 people come every day to find a little respite in one such centre.</p>

<p>"This is the fourth time we've opened an air-conditioned space this year," says Argyro Koika, a social worker at the centre.</p>

<p>The Ministry of Civil Protection has recommended protecting oneself from the sun by staying in shaded and air-conditioned places, avoiding physical activities and drinking water regularly.&nbsp;</p>


In Athens' parliament square, the Evzones parade under their red berets and stifling heat. With sweat beading on their foreheads, the presidential guards rehearse their choreography in front of a cluster of tourists as a new heatwave hits the Greek capital.

In Athens' parliament square, the Evzones parade under their red berets and stifling heat. With sweat beading on their foreheads, the presidential guards rehearse their choreography in front of a cluster of tourists as a new heatwave hits the Greek capital. "They're amazing, but they must be suffering," says Jim Grace, an Irish tourist who, holding a bottle of water, watches them under the scorching sun. "We're adapting," says his wife Esther Grace. "We're drinking lots of water and putting on sunscreen." Dubbed a "dangerous" event due to how long it will last and the small difference between maximum and minimum temperatures, the heatwave is expected to peak on Monday, with temperatures likely reaching 42 to 44 degrees Celsius (107 to 111 degrees Fahrenheit). It's the second one this year, part of a trend of more frequent heatwaves and rising average temperatures that prompted the municipality of Athens to appoint a climate officer earlier this month to try and mitigate the heat. 'There are solutions' On Monastiraki Square, Alexandra Holarou drags her cart full of sweets through tourists trying on caps and straw hats. "I'm going to die in this heat," she says. Her face red, the 60-year-old shopkeeper sets up a parasol but "there are not many options to protect oneself," she says. "It's hard, very hard to work in these conditions." Also read | No place is safe, reveal scientists amid unprecedented heatwave in parts of US and Canada Passers-by stay close to the walls in search of shade and air conditioning that blasts out from shops. The café terraces are oases where water misters and fans are running at full speed. "We weren't really prepared," confesses Frenchman Nicolas Deshayes. "We left this morning from Paris where it was 15 degrees." Eleni Myrivili, Athens' climate officer, tells AFP the situation will only worsen if nothing is done. "By 2050, the number of rainy days will have dropped by 12 percent and the temperature will have risen by 2.5 degrees," she says. But she adds "there are solutions" such as developing green spaces in a city that looks like a sea of concrete, helping vulnerable people and raising public awareness. "We need to rethink the public space as a whole because the consequences affect the health of our population and the economy of our country," she says. "There are more workplace accidents with the rise in temperatures and people go to shops less." Second heatwave of the summer Greece has already experienced a heatwave earlier this summer, when temperatures reached 44 degrees Celsius for 11 days. According to data from the National Observatory of Athens, this was the fifth longest heatwave in Greece in 40 years. "These climatic phenomena are becoming more and more frequent," Konstantinos Lagouvardos, the observatory's director of meteorological research, says. "Beyond the heatwaves, the most worrying thing is that average temperatures are rising considerably summer after summer. "The average for Athens is now 34-35 degrees, which is two degrees higher than in previous years," he says. "This is already the second heatwave of the summer, a third would be an unprecedented event." Several municipalities have opened air-conditioned shelters for the homeless and vulnerable. In Piraeus, at a short distance from the port where tourists escape to the islands, about 15 people come every day to find a little respite in one such centre. "This is the fourth time we've opened an air-conditioned space this year," says Argyro Koika, a social worker at the centre. The Ministry of Civil Protection has recommended protecting oneself from the sun by staying in shaded and air-conditioned places, avoiding physical activities and drinking water regularly.

'Dangerous' heatwave hits Athens again

In Pics | Forest fire ravages through area near Athens

<p>More than 5,000 anti-vaccine protesters, some them waving Greek flags and wooden crosses, rallied in&nbsp;Athens&nbsp;on Wednesday to oppose Greece's coronavirus vaccinations programme.</p>

<p>Shouting "take your vaccines and get out of here!" and calling on Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to resign, the protesters gathered outside parliament under heavy police presence.</p>

<p>Wednesday's protest was the biggest show of opposition to the inoculation drive. A recent poll by Pulse for Skai TV found most Greeks said they would get the vaccine, and the majority were in favour of the mandatory vaccination for some segments of the population.</p>

<p>About 41% of Greeks are fully vaccinated. On Monday, the government ordered the mandatory vaccination of healthcare workers and nursing home staff following a steep rise in new COVID-19 infections in the middle of the vital tourism season.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/greek-fm-nikos-dendias-says-india-greece-uae-to-establish-trilateral-dialogue-hits-out-turkey-397088"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Greek FM Nikos Dendias says India, Greece, UAE to establish trilateral dialogue; hits out Turkey</strong></a></p>

<p>"Every person has the right to choose. We're choosing that the government does not choose for us," said Faidon Vovolis, a cardiologist, who has questioned the scientific research around face masks and the vaccine and heads the "Free Again" movement, which called the protest. Vovolis said he started the group in response to the government's "tough measures" to contain the virus.</p>

<p>Protests are fairly common in Greece and there have been several in recent months on issues ranging from a new labour law to the most recent Israeli military campaign on Gaza.</p>

<p>A country of 11 million, more than 444,700 people have been infected since the pandemic began and 12,782 have died. Authorities recorded nearly 3,000 new infections on Wednesday.</p>


More than 5,000 anti-vaccine protesters, some them waving Greek flags and wooden crosses, rallied in Athens on Wednesday to oppose Greece's coronavirus vaccinations programme.

More than 5,000 anti-vaccine protesters, some them waving Greek flags and wooden crosses, rallied in Athens on Wednesday to oppose Greece's coronavirus vaccinations programme. Shouting "take your vaccines and get out of here!" and calling on Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to resign, the protesters gathered outside parliament under heavy police presence. Wednesday's protest was the biggest show of opposition to the inoculation drive. A recent poll by Pulse for Skai TV found most Greeks said they would get the vaccine, and the majority were in favour of the mandatory vaccination for some segments of the population. About 41% of Greeks are fully vaccinated. On Monday, the government ordered the mandatory vaccination of healthcare workers and nursing home staff following a steep rise in new COVID-19 infections in the middle of the vital tourism season. Also read | Greek FM Nikos Dendias says India, Greece, UAE to establish trilateral dialogue; hits out Turkey "Every person has the right to choose. We're choosing that the government does not choose for us," said Faidon Vovolis, a cardiologist, who has questioned the scientific research around face masks and the vaccine and heads the "Free Again" movement, which called the protest. Vovolis said he started the group in response to the government's "tough measures" to contain the virus. Protests are fairly common in Greece and there have been several in recent months on issues ranging from a new labour law to the most recent Israeli military campaign on Gaza. A country of 11 million, more than 444,700 people have been infected since the pandemic began and 12,782 have died. Authorities recorded nearly 3,000 new infections on Wednesday.

Thousands rally against COVID-19 vaccinations in Athens

<p>Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held talks with his Greek counterpart Nikos Dendias in Athens on Saturday. Both the countries discussed recent developments in the eastern Mediterranean, Cyprus and Libya.</p>

<p>Eastern Mediterranean saw tense developments recently&nbsp;over Turkey's claims in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) which Greece says belongs to it under UN laws. Cyprus and Libya are also involved in this given their EEZs are also impacted due to tussle in the region. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is the first visit to Athens by an Indian foreign minister in last 18 years.</p>

<p>During the talks, the Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias focussed on Indo-Pacific, counter-terror, UN reforms as well. A joint release said, "Both sides noted with satisfaction the convergence of each other's vision for a free, open, inclusive and cooperative Indo-Pacific ensuring connectivity and growth for all in the region."</p>

<p>Both sides called for reforms at the United Nations security council and other multilateral institutions to make them "more inclusive, transparent, accountable, and better reflective of contemporary geopolitical realities." During the discussions, Greek side reiterated its support for permanent membership of India in a reformed United Nations Security Council (UNSC)</p>

<p>Greece's neighbour Turkey is part of the Uniting for Consensus or coffee club which is countering bids by G4 nations (Brazil, Germany, India, and Japan) for expanded UNSC. Pakistan is also part of the coffee club along with ally Turkey.</p>

<p>One of the most significant outcomes of Indian foreign minister's visit to Greece was the country formally joining the International Solar Alliance (ISA). Foreign minister Nikos Dendias formally handed over the agreement of ISA. India Headquartered ISA aims to use solar energy as a source of clean energy that is affordable to all.</p>


Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held talks with his Greek counterpart Nikos Dendias in Athens on Saturday. Both the countries discussed recent developments in the eastern Mediterranean, Cyprus and Libya.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held talks with his Greek counterpart Nikos Dendias in Athens on Saturday. Both the countries discussed recent developments in the eastern Mediterranean, Cyprus and Libya. Eastern Mediterranean saw tense developments recently over Turkey's claims in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) which Greece says belongs to it under UN laws. Cyprus and Libya are also involved in this given their EEZs are also impacted due to tussle in the region. This is the first visit to Athens by an Indian foreign minister in last 18 years. During the talks, the Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias focussed on Indo-Pacific, counter-terror, UN reforms as well. A joint release said, "Both sides noted with satisfaction the convergence of each other's vision for a free, open, inclusive and cooperative Indo-Pacific ensuring connectivity and growth for all in the region." Both sides called for reforms at the United Nations security council and other multilateral institutions to make them "more inclusive, transparent, accountable, and better reflective of contemporary geopolitical realities." During the discussions, Greek side reiterated its support for permanent membership of India in a reformed United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Greece's neighbour Turkey is part of the Uniting for Consensus or coffee club which is countering bids by G4 nations (Brazil, Germany, India, and Japan) for expanded UNSC. Pakistan is also part of the coffee club along with ally Turkey. One of the most significant outcomes of Indian foreign minister's visit to Greece was the country formally joining the International Solar Alliance (ISA). Foreign minister Nikos Dendias formally handed over the agreement of ISA. India Headquartered ISA aims to use solar energy as a source of clean energy that is affordable to all.

India, Greece discuss developments in Eastern Mediterranean during Jaishankar's Athens visit

<p>Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu on Sunday (May 30) visited Muslim community in Greece. He met the community members in Komotini, a town in northern Greece. His visit to the town came ahead of a visit to Athens aimed at improving ties between Turkey and Greece.</p>

<p>The Greek town he visited was once part of the Ottoman Empire.</p>

<p>Cavusoglu is scheduled to hold talks with his Greek counterpart Nikos Dendias and Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Monday (May 31).</p>

<p>Last year, Turkey-Greece relations were strained over decades-old dispute between the two countries over maritime jurisdiction and rights to offshore resources in the eastern Mediterranean.</p>

<p>The two countries have since resumed bilateral talks to address the dispute.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu on Sunday (May 30) visited Muslim community in Greece. He met the community members in Komotini, a town in northern Greece.

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu on Sunday (May 30) visited Muslim community in Greece. He met the community members in Komotini, a town in northern Greece. His visit to the town came ahead of a visit to Athens aimed at improving ties between Turkey and Greece. The Greek town he visited was once part of the Ottoman Empire. Cavusoglu is scheduled to hold talks with his Greek counterpart Nikos Dendias and Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Monday (May 31). Last year, Turkey-Greece relations were strained over decades-old dispute between the two countries over maritime jurisdiction and rights to offshore resources in the eastern Mediterranean. The two countries have since resumed bilateral talks to address the dispute. (With inputs from agencies)

Turkish foreign minister meets Muslim community in Greece

Several hundred dog owners gathered with their pets outside the Greek Parliament on Sunday in protest against a proposed new law that would mandate the sterilization of household pets.

Athens protest over measures for pet sterilisation

'Ecological disaster' feared as Greece battles forest fire

<p>Police in Greece on Sunday fired tear gas and water cannon in order to disperse pro-Palestinian demonstrators protesting in Athens against Israeli attacks in Gaza.</p>

<p>Hundreds of people shouted "Freedom to Palestine" and waved Palestinian flags as they marched to the Israeli embassy. The embassy was cordoned off by police buses.</p>

<p>The demonstration in the Greek capital follows similar protests in cities around the world following days of intense conflict between Israel and Palestinian militants in Gaza.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Police in Greece on Sunday fired tear gas and water cannon in order to disperse pro-Palestinian demonstrators protesting in Athens against Israeli attacks in Gaza.

Police in Greece on Sunday fired tear gas and water cannon in order to disperse pro-Palestinian demonstrators protesting in Athens against Israeli attacks in Gaza. Hundreds of people shouted "Freedom to Palestine" and waved Palestinian flags as they marched to the Israeli embassy. The embassy was cordoned off by police buses. The demonstration in the Greek capital follows similar protests in cities around the world following days of intense conflict between Israel and Palestinian militants in Gaza. (With inputs from agencies)

Pro-Palestine demonstrations in Athens, police fire water cannons

Chocolate bunnies wearing edible face masks and holding replica vaccine syringes are hopping off the shelves at a pastry shop in the Greek capital Athens.

Masked chocolate bunnies fill pastry shop in Athens

<p>This is the season of being merry and Athens has finally received its Christmas gift as the&nbsp;first official mosque got permission to reopen for the holiday season.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Greek capital's first official mosque was forced to close down within days of its&nbsp;inauguration in November.&nbsp; However, as Greece relaxed its nationwide lockdown — which was imposed to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus — the Muslim community was allowed to return to the mosque.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/locked-down-athens-is-lit-up-for-the-holidays-without-fanfare-349982"><strong>WATCH|</strong></a></p>

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<p>As the holiday season came closer, the government decided to let the faithful return to their religious place, but with a cap on maximum attendees allowed. "We’ve decided, without discrimination, that every place of worship can conduct services and prayers as long as congregations are limited to 25 people," Giorgos Kalantzis, the secretary-general at the ministry of education and religious affairs told a media house.</p>

<p>The decision has been welcomed by the community and the&nbsp;mosque’s government-appointed imam&nbsp;Mohammed Sissi Zaki, who had been negatively affected by the sudden closure. "When we finally opened in early November it was for five days and just one Friday prayers," said Zaki. "After the lockdown this is a big, big blessing."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/orchestra-brings-festive-cheer-to-athens-352377"><strong>WATCH|</strong></a></p>

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<p>"It is with great happiness, satisfaction and relief that we can say we are here at all," the 55-year-old imam said upon reopening of the mosque.</p>

<p>The first official mosque has opened in Athens after years of repeated requests from the community — some of whom claim the mosques were wiped off from the country almost&nbsp;200 years following the withdrawal of Ottoman forces from the city.</p>


This is the season of being merry and Athens has finally received its Christmas gift as the first official mosque got permission to reopen for the holiday season.

This is the season of being merry and Athens has finally received its Christmas gift as the first official mosque got permission to reopen for the holiday season. The Greek capital's first official mosque was forced to close down within days of its inauguration in November. However, as Greece relaxed its nationwide lockdown — which was imposed to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus — the Muslim community was allowed to return to the mosque. WATCH| × As the holiday season came closer, the government decided to let the faithful return to their religious place, but with a cap on maximum attendees allowed. "We’ve decided, without discrimination, that every place of worship can conduct services and prayers as long as congregations are limited to 25 people," Giorgos Kalantzis, the secretary-general at the ministry of education and religious affairs told a media house. The decision has been welcomed by the community and the mosque’s government-appointed imam Mohammed Sissi Zaki, who had been negatively affected by the sudden closure. "When we finally opened in early November it was for five days and just one Friday prayers," said Zaki. "After the lockdown this is a big, big blessing." WATCH| × "It is with great happiness, satisfaction and relief that we can say we are here at all," the 55-year-old imam said upon reopening of the mosque. The first official mosque has opened in Athens after years of repeated requests from the community — some of whom claim the mosques were wiped off from the country almost 200 years following the withdrawal of Ottoman forces from the city.

Athens' first official mosque allowed to reopen for holiday season

An Athens orchestra performed Christmas songs from an open top bus on Thursday, traveling around neighborhoods in the city, to the delight of local residents.

Orchestra brings festive cheer to Athens

Athens annual Christmas tree lighting took place in the main square on Monday (December 14), but unlike other years, it was without ceremony - there were no marching bands, no crowds, nor famous celebrities singing carols for the event.

Locked down Athens is lit up for the holidays without fanfare

<p>Deepika Padukone's 'authentic smile' is greeting passengers at Athens airport. A picture of the Bollywood star's bust, made of dark stone is part of an exhibition of 'authentic smiles' at the airport.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The bust is modelled around one of Deepika's photos, and sports a choker and hair neatly tied in a bun. While Deepika's name is not mentioned in the display, the description reads as, "Indian Bollywood Actress smiles at Athens International Airport. Grey Marble, 2020 A.D."&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Fans of the actress, who has been part of Hollywood hit franchise 'XXX' captured the image and posted on social media. Several of her fan pages re-shared the image which has now gone viral.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
A popular star in India, Deepika Padukone is also internationally recognised for her work on mental health awareness. She has been brand ambasador of international brands and even featured in TIME magazine 2018 list of 100 most influential people in the world.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
She was last seen in her home production 'Chhapaak' which released in January. Deepika is currently shooting for Shakun Batra's next that co-stars Siddhanth Chaturvedi and Ananya Panday.&nbsp;</p>


Deepika Padukone's 'authentic smile' is greeting passengers at Athens airport. A picture of the Bollywood star's bust, made of dark stone is part of an exhibition of 'authentic smiles' at the airport.

Deepika Padukone's 'authentic smile' is greeting passengers at Athens airport. A picture of the Bollywood star's bust, made of dark stone is part of an exhibition of 'authentic smiles' at the airport. The bust is modelled around one of Deepika's photos, and sports a choker and hair neatly tied in a bun. While Deepika's name is not mentioned in the display, the description reads as, "Indian Bollywood Actress smiles at Athens International Airport. Grey Marble, 2020 A.D." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Deepika_Padukone__ (@deepika_padukone__3) × Fans of the actress, who has been part of Hollywood hit franchise 'XXX' captured the image and posted on social media. Several of her fan pages re-shared the image which has now gone viral. A popular star in India, Deepika Padukone is also internationally recognised for her work on mental health awareness. She has been brand ambasador of international brands and even featured in TIME magazine 2018 list of 100 most influential people in the world. She was last seen in her home production 'Chhapaak' which released in January. Deepika is currently shooting for Shakun Batra's next that co-stars Siddhanth Chaturvedi and Ananya Panday.

Deepika Padukone part of 'authentic smile' exhibition at Athens airport

<p>Around 100 people were arrested Sunday in Athens at banned marches to mark the 12th anniversary of the police killing of a teenager, Greek police said.</p>

<p>Scores of students, trades unionists and leading politicians on the left defied a ban on gatherings of more than four people that had been imposed to curb the spread of the coronavirus.</p>

<p>They were paying tribute to 15-year-old Alexandros Grigoropoulos on the 12th anniversary of his shooting death at the hands of police in the Exarchia district of the Greek capital.</p>

<p>The annual march has frequently been marred by violence in the past.</p>

<p>On Sunday, city centre metro stations were shut and police deployed heavily in the Exarchia district as surveillance drones flew overhead.</p>

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<p>Police broke up a similar demonstration in front of the Greek parliament on Friday.</p>

<p>The officer who killed Grigoropoulos was convicted of homicide and given a life sentence, but then released in 2019, a decision that the dead teenager's family are appealing in the courts.</p>

<p>The country erupted at the time of his killing with students, left-wing activists and others taking part in increasingly large protests that were also marked by vandalism and looting.</p>

<p>The conservative government has extended anti-Covid lockdown rules to December 14, a decision the leftwing opposition has criticised as a cover for imposing increasingly heavy-handed security measures.</p>

<p>A November 17 demonstration commemorating the 1973 uprising against the colonels' junta was violently broken up.</p>

<p>On November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, five activists were arrested for unfurling a banner in outside parliament.</p>


Around 100 people were arrested Sunday in Athens at banned marches to mark the 12th anniversary of the police killing of a teenager, Greek police said. Scores of students, trades unionists and leading politicians on the left defied a ban on gatherings of more than four people that had been imposed to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

Around 100 people were arrested Sunday in Athens at banned marches to mark the 12th anniversary of the police killing of a teenager, Greek police said. Scores of students, trades unionists and leading politicians on the left defied a ban on gatherings of more than four people that had been imposed to curb the spread of the coronavirus. They were paying tribute to 15-year-old Alexandros Grigoropoulos on the 12th anniversary of his shooting death at the hands of police in the Exarchia district of the Greek capital. The annual march has frequently been marred by violence in the past. On Sunday, city centre metro stations were shut and police deployed heavily in the Exarchia district as surveillance drones flew overhead. × Police broke up a similar demonstration in front of the Greek parliament on Friday. The officer who killed Grigoropoulos was convicted of homicide and given a life sentence, but then released in 2019, a decision that the dead teenager's family are appealing in the courts. The country erupted at the time of his killing with students, left-wing activists and others taking part in increasingly large protests that were also marked by vandalism and looting. The conservative government has extended anti-Covid lockdown rules to December 14, a decision the leftwing opposition has criticised as a cover for imposing increasingly heavy-handed security measures. A November 17 demonstration commemorating the 1973 uprising against the colonels' junta was violently broken up. On November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, five activists were arrested for unfurling a banner in outside parliament.

Greek police arrest dozens at march in memory of slain teen

<p>Greek police on Sunday announced a ban on public gatherings of four or more people as hospitals were overwhelmed with coronavirus cases,&nbsp;ahead of the annual anniversary of a 1973 anti-junta uprising.</p>

<p>Greece on Saturday said it would shut primary schools, kindergartens and daycare centres as coronavirus deaths crossed a thousand.</p>

<p>The anti-junta demonstration is a treasured anniversary for many Greeks, and more than 30,000 people demonstrated in Athens and other major cities last year under a heavy police presence.</p>

<p>At least 24 people were killed in the 1973 crackdown, an event generally considered to have broken the junta's grip on power and helped the restoration of democracy.</p>

<p>This year, however, all public gatherings of four or more people would be banned from 6 am on Sunday to 9 pm on Wednesday to stem the spread of coronavirus, police said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fines of 5,000 euros will be issued to legal entities like political parties and 3,000 euros for individuals who organise gatherings, while those participating will be fined 300 euros. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Citizens' Protection Minister Michalis Chrysochoidis said on Friday that the events and marches commemorating the November 17 Athens Polytechnic student uprising will not take place this year.</p>

<p>"We did not celebrate March 25th or October 28th, we did not celebrate Easter, we did not celebrate any of the things that unite us in 2020. The same will be the case with the Polytechnic anniversary," the minister said, referring to three national holidays that were not celebrated because of the coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p>"The virus is the enemy and large gatherings are its main weapon," he added, prompting opposition parties to pledge they would proceed with demonstrations.</p>

<p>Communist KKE party leader Dimitris Koutsoumpas in an interview on Saturday stressed that "the Polytechnic march was never organised by the government". &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"All the measures will be strictly observed with the use of face masks and antiseptics, keeping the necessary distances and of course we urge people belonging to vulnerable groups or those who are ill to stay at home," Koutsoumpas said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Greece's former finance minister Yanis Varoufakis, leader of the Diem25 party on Saturday accused the government of announcing in advance the arrest of his party's members.</p>

<p>On Friday, Greek police evacuated the premises of the historic Polytechnic building that now houses the National Technical University of Athens and another university campus and arrested 92 people for trespassing, disturbance and disorder.</p>

<p>Authorities on Saturday reported 2,835 new coronavirus cases, taking the total to 72,510, and 38 new deaths, raising the toll to 1,035.</p>


Greek police on Sunday announced a ban on public gatherings of four or more people as hospitals were overwhelmed with coronavirus cases, ahead of the annual anniversary of a 1973 anti-junta uprising.

Greek police on Sunday announced a ban on public gatherings of four or more people as hospitals were overwhelmed with coronavirus cases, ahead of the annual anniversary of a 1973 anti-junta uprising. Greece on Saturday said it would shut primary schools, kindergartens and daycare centres as coronavirus deaths crossed a thousand. The anti-junta demonstration is a treasured anniversary for many Greeks, and more than 30,000 people demonstrated in Athens and other major cities last year under a heavy police presence. At least 24 people were killed in the 1973 crackdown, an event generally considered to have broken the junta's grip on power and helped the restoration of democracy. This year, however, all public gatherings of four or more people would be banned from 6 am on Sunday to 9 pm on Wednesday to stem the spread of coronavirus, police said in a statement. Fines of 5,000 euros will be issued to legal entities like political parties and 3,000 euros for individuals who organise gatherings, while those participating will be fined 300 euros. Citizens' Protection Minister Michalis Chrysochoidis said on Friday that the events and marches commemorating the November 17 Athens Polytechnic student uprising will not take place this year. "We did not celebrate March 25th or October 28th, we did not celebrate Easter, we did not celebrate any of the things that unite us in 2020. The same will be the case with the Polytechnic anniversary," the minister said, referring to three national holidays that were not celebrated because of the coronavirus pandemic. "The virus is the enemy and large gatherings are its main weapon," he added, prompting opposition parties to pledge they would proceed with demonstrations. Communist KKE party leader Dimitris Koutsoumpas in an interview on Saturday stressed that "the Polytechnic march was never organised by the government". "All the measures will be strictly observed with the use of face masks and antiseptics, keeping the necessary distances and of course we urge people belonging to vulnerable groups or those who are ill to stay at home," Koutsoumpas said. Greece's former finance minister Yanis Varoufakis, leader of the Diem25 party on Saturday accused the government of announcing in advance the arrest of his party's members. On Friday, Greek police evacuated the premises of the historic Polytechnic building that now houses the National Technical University of Athens and another university campus and arrested 92 people for trespassing, disturbance and disorder. Authorities on Saturday reported 2,835 new coronavirus cases, taking the total to 72,510, and 38 new deaths, raising the toll to 1,035.

Greece bans gatherings ahead of uprising anniversary

<p>After years of delays caused by red tape, cutbacks and opposition from religious and political factions, the first government-funded mosque in Athens since 1833 opened its doors to worshippers on Friday.</p>

<p>Hundreds of thousands of Muslims from countries including Pakistan, Syria, Afghanistan and Bangladesh live in Athens but the city has not had a formal mosque since it forced occupying Ottomans to leave nearly 200 years ago.</p>

<p>Plans to build a mosque in Athens began in 1890 but it took decades for them to materialise due to opposition from a predominantly Christian Orthodox population and nationalists, sluggish bureaucracy but most recently a decade-long financial crisis.</p>

<p>Amid a coronavirus outbreak, only a limited number of worshippers, wearing masks and sitting at a distance from each other due to COVID-19 restrictions, attended prayers.</p>

<p>"It is a historic moment for the Muslim community living in Athens, we have been waiting for this mosque for so long," said Heider Ashir, a member of the mosque's governing council. "Thanks to God, finally, we have a mosque which is open and we can pray here freely."</p>

<p>But other Muslims were unhappy with the mosque's appearance. A grey, rectangular structure with no dome or minaret, has no resemblance to other graceful, ornate mosques in Europe.</p>

<p>"It does not at all look like a place of worship, it is a small, square, miserable building," said Naim El Ghandour, head of the Muslim Association of Greece. "We thank them very much for the offer, but we will fight to reach it to the level that we deserve."</p>

<p>Under a lockdown to curb a surge in COVID infections, gatherings for formal worshipping will be banned from Saturday until Nov. 30.</p>

<p>"We will pray at home, and as soon as the lockdown is over the mosque will again be open for the worshippers," Ashir said.</p>


After years of delays caused by red tape, cutbacks and opposition from religious and political factions, the first government-funded mosque in Athens since 1833 opened its doors to worshippers on Friday.

After years of delays caused by red tape, cutbacks and opposition from religious and political factions, the first government-funded mosque in Athens since 1833 opened its doors to worshippers on Friday. Hundreds of thousands of Muslims from countries including Pakistan, Syria, Afghanistan and Bangladesh live in Athens but the city has not had a formal mosque since it forced occupying Ottomans to leave nearly 200 years ago. Plans to build a mosque in Athens began in 1890 but it took decades for them to materialise due to opposition from a predominantly Christian Orthodox population and nationalists, sluggish bureaucracy but most recently a decade-long financial crisis. Amid a coronavirus outbreak, only a limited number of worshippers, wearing masks and sitting at a distance from each other due to COVID-19 restrictions, attended prayers. "It is a historic moment for the Muslim community living in Athens, we have been waiting for this mosque for so long," said Heider Ashir, a member of the mosque's governing council. "Thanks to God, finally, we have a mosque which is open and we can pray here freely." But other Muslims were unhappy with the mosque's appearance. A grey, rectangular structure with no dome or minaret, has no resemblance to other graceful, ornate mosques in Europe. "It does not at all look like a place of worship, it is a small, square, miserable building," said Naim El Ghandour, head of the Muslim Association of Greece. "We thank them very much for the offer, but we will fight to reach it to the level that we deserve." Under a lockdown to curb a surge in COVID infections, gatherings for formal worshipping will be banned from Saturday until Nov. 30. "We will pray at home, and as soon as the lockdown is over the mosque will again be open for the worshippers," Ashir said.

Athens' first mosque in nearly 200 years opens for Friday prayers

A Greek court has found the Neo-Nazi party Golden Dawn guilty of acting as a criminal organisation. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: Athens courts' historic verdict, 'Golden dawn a criminal group'

<p>A wildfire fanned by strong winds forced the evacuation of a residential settlement and a boarding school in the town of Keratea near Athens, the fire brigade said on Wednesday.</p>

<p>The settlement of Feriza and the boarding school were evacuated protectively, a fire brigade official said, adding that there were no reports of casualties or damage. About 30 children had been transferred to a nearby hotel.</p>

<p>At least 40 firefighters supported by 16 fire engines, two aircraft and four helicopters battled the blaze, which broke out around midday.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/fire-breaks-out-at-overcrowded-moria-migrant-camp-in-greece-326137" hreflang="en">Fire breaks out at overcrowded Moria migrant camp in Greece</a></p>

<p>Traffic was diverted and TV images showed residents, wearing masks due to the coronavirus pandemic, standing in the streets nearby.</p>

<p>Greece often experiences wildfires during its dry summer months. Temperatures have remained high for the season, and authorities have warned of the high risk of blazes this week.</p>

<p>A forest fire was also burning near the seaside town of Nea Makri, northeast of Athens, the fire brigade said.</p>

<p>Early on Wednesday, fires broke out in a migrant camp on the island of Lesbos, destroying tents and containers and leaving thousands of people homeless.</p>


A wildfire fanned by strong winds forced the evacuation of a residential settlement and a boarding school in the town of Keratea near Athens, the fire brigade said on Wednesday.

A wildfire fanned by strong winds forced the evacuation of a residential settlement and a boarding school in the town of Keratea near Athens, the fire brigade said on Wednesday. The settlement of Feriza and the boarding school were evacuated protectively, a fire brigade official said, adding that there were no reports of casualties or damage. About 30 children had been transferred to a nearby hotel. At least 40 firefighters supported by 16 fire engines, two aircraft and four helicopters battled the blaze, which broke out around midday. Also read: Fire breaks out at overcrowded Moria migrant camp in Greece Traffic was diverted and TV images showed residents, wearing masks due to the coronavirus pandemic, standing in the streets nearby. Greece often experiences wildfires during its dry summer months. Temperatures have remained high for the season, and authorities have warned of the high risk of blazes this week. A forest fire was also burning near the seaside town of Nea Makri, northeast of Athens, the fire brigade said. Early on Wednesday, fires broke out in a migrant camp on the island of Lesbos, destroying tents and containers and leaving thousands of people homeless.

Greek wildfire rages near Athens, residential area evacuated

<p>At least&nbsp;twelve&nbsp;people drowned when their&nbsp;boat&nbsp;sank&nbsp;off&nbsp;an&nbsp;island&nbsp;in western <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-has-right-to-self-defence-says-israels-benjamin-netanyahu-after-soleimanis-killing-271977">Greece</a> on Saturday,&nbsp;Greek&nbsp;authorities said, marking the&nbsp;deadliest toll in months in Greece's&nbsp;migrant&nbsp;crisis.</p>

<p>Twenty-one people were&nbsp;rescued, the coastguard said.</p>

<p>Helicopters and ships were searching the area south-west of the&nbsp;island&nbsp;of Paxos for more survivors. Authorities said they had accounts of up to 50 people being on the vessel.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;Greek&nbsp;authorities said they had scrambled to the area after receiving a distress signal from the&nbsp;boat&nbsp;which was taking in water. No further details were immediately available.</p>

<p>Greek&nbsp;authorities regularly detect&nbsp;boatloads of&nbsp;migrants heading to Greece from Turkey to its east. Sea disasters&nbsp;off&nbsp;its western coast, facing Italy, are less common.</p>

<p>Greece was at the frontline of Europe's&nbsp;migrant&nbsp;crisis in 2015 and 2016, when more than a million people reached the country, fleeing war in the Middle East and beyond. Its camps and reception centres on outlying&nbsp;islands facing Turkey are severely overcrowded.</p>

<p>Almost 74,500&nbsp;migrants and refugees made their way to Greece in 2019, most of them by sea, according to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/anti-caa-protests-heres-why-the-police-force-is-being-targetted-and-demonised-271596">UNHCR</a>, the UN refugee agency.</p>


At least twelve people drowned when their boat sank off an island in western Greece on Saturday, Greek authorities said, marking the deadliest toll in months in Greece's migrant crisis.

At least twelve people drowned when their boat sank off an island in western Greece on Saturday, Greek authorities said, marking the deadliest toll in months in Greece's migrant crisis. Twenty-one people were rescued, the coastguard said. Helicopters and ships were searching the area south-west of the island of Paxos for more survivors. Authorities said they had accounts of up to 50 people being on the vessel. The Greek authorities said they had scrambled to the area after receiving a distress signal from the boat which was taking in water. No further details were immediately available. Greek authorities regularly detect boatloads of migrants heading to Greece from Turkey to its east. Sea disasters off its western coast, facing Italy, are less common. Greece was at the frontline of Europe's migrant crisis in 2015 and 2016, when more than a million people reached the country, fleeing war in the Middle East and beyond. Its camps and reception centres on outlying islands facing Turkey are severely overcrowded. Almost 74,500 migrants and refugees made their way to Greece in 2019, most of them by sea, according to the UNHCR, the UN refugee agency.

Twelve dead, 21 rescued as migrant boat sinks off Greek island

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