In recent weeks Greece experienced 667 fires and according to the country's senior climate crisis official, most of them were started by people.

Climate change to cost Greece over $700 billion: Report

In recent weeks Greece experienced 667 fires and according to the country's senior climate crisis official, most of them were started by people. The fires occurred during an unprecedented 15-day Heat Wave which led to widespread devastation.

Greece Climate Minister Vassilis Kikilias blames arsonists

<p>Greece's senior climate crisis official said that most of the 667 fires, which erupted in recent weeks across the country, were started “by human hand”.<br />
<br />
As the Mediterranean country recovers from unprecedented infernos caused by a 15-day period of heatwave, the scale of the destruction is now being revealed.<br />
<br />
Even though the country battled very different weather conditions and the experts called July's first three weeks as the hottest on record, the government on Friday (July 28) claimed that most of the fires could have been prevented.<br />
<br />
Speaking to media reporters, Greek Minister of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Vassilis Kikilias said, “During this time 667 fires erupted, that is more than 60 fires a day, almost all over the country. Unfortunately, the majority were ignited by human hand, either by criminal negligence or intent.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-an-excuse-as-wildfires-rage-greek-pm-says-must-tackle-climate-change-620087">'Not an excuse': As wildfires rage, Greek PM says must tackle climate change</a></p>

<p>Kikilias stated that, in a few places, the fire broke out at different points in close proximity at the same time, which suggested the involvement of arsonists in the further spread of the fire.<br />
<br />
“The difference with other years were the weather conditions. Climate change, which yielded a historic and unprecedented heatwave, is here. There were very few days where the extreme weather was not combined with strong winds,” he added.<br />
<br />
In a long period of time, such record-breaking temperatures have not been registered by the meteorologists in Greece. The country saw temperatures peak to a 15-year high with the exception of islands in the Aegean and Ionian seas.</p>

<h2><strong>UN calls for immediate measures to cut planet-heating emissions</strong></h2>

<p>UN secretary general Antonio Guterres appealed for bold and immediate measures to cut the planet-heating emissions. He said, “The evidence is everywhere. Humanity has unleashed destruction. This must not inspire despair, but action.”<br />
<br />
Greece’s leading expert on atmospheric physics Prof Christos Zerefos said that the situation is likely to worsen every year. “All strategies will have to be reviewed (because of) the climate crisis,” he said. Annual mean temperatures are likely to increase by around 2C over the next 30 years, Zerefos said.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Greece wildfire in Rhode Islands forces tourists to flee</strong></p>

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<p>“The mild winter has resulted in us losing half the water this year, reducing soil moisture and this creates a situation that favours the spread of forest fires. Forest ecosystems in Greece are among the most sensitive in the world. The forest ecosystem is essential. If we protect it there is hope it can regenerate,” he added.</p>

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Greece's senior climate crisis official said that most of the 667 fires, which erupted in recent weeks across the country, were started “by human hand”. As the Mediterranean country recovers from unprecedented infernos caused by a 15-day period of heatwave, the scale of the destruction is now being revealed.

Greece's senior climate crisis official said that most of the 667 fires, which erupted in recent weeks across the country, were started “by human hand”. As the Mediterranean country recovers from unprecedented infernos caused by a 15-day period of heatwave, the scale of the destruction is now being revealed. Even though the country battled very different weather conditions and the experts called July's first three weeks as the hottest on record, the government on Friday (July 28) claimed that most of the fires could have been prevented. Speaking to media reporters, Greek Minister of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Vassilis Kikilias said, “During this time 667 fires erupted, that is more than 60 fires a day, almost all over the country. Unfortunately, the majority were ignited by human hand, either by criminal negligence or intent.” ALSO READ | 'Not an excuse': As wildfires rage, Greek PM says must tackle climate change Kikilias stated that, in a few places, the fire broke out at different points in close proximity at the same time, which suggested the involvement of arsonists in the further spread of the fire. “The difference with other years were the weather conditions. Climate change, which yielded a historic and unprecedented heatwave, is here. There were very few days where the extreme weather was not combined with strong winds,” he added. In a long period of time, such record-breaking temperatures have not been registered by the meteorologists in Greece. The country saw temperatures peak to a 15-year high with the exception of islands in the Aegean and Ionian seas. UN calls for immediate measures to cut planet-heating emissions UN secretary general Antonio Guterres appealed for bold and immediate measures to cut the planet-heating emissions. He said, “The evidence is everywhere. Humanity has unleashed destruction. This must not inspire despair, but action.” Greece’s leading expert on atmospheric physics Prof Christos Zerefos said that the situation is likely to worsen every year. “All strategies will have to be reviewed (because of) the climate crisis,” he said. Annual mean temperatures are likely to increase by around 2C over the next 30 years, Zerefos said. WATCH | Greece wildfire in Rhode Islands forces tourists to flee “The mild winter has resulted in us losing half the water this year, reducing soil moisture and this creates a situation that favours the spread of forest fires. Forest ecosystems in Greece are among the most sensitive in the world. The forest ecosystem is essential. If we protect it there is hope it can regenerate,” he added. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Greece minister holds ‘arsonists’ responsible for most of 667 wildfires

<p>Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Thursday (July 27) said that the country needed to take more steps to fight the effects of climate change. Wildfires are raging in the central part of the country forcing more evacuations after burning farms and factories overnight.</p>

<p>The blazing fires are stoked more by strong winds and temperatures crossing 40 degrees Celsius mark. Two more deaths were recorded in central Greece on Wednesday. This has taken the death toll from the fires to five.</p>

<p>Officials have been ordering evacuations of several communities since Wednesday in the hard-hit area of of Magnesia. It is a coastal area north of Athens.&nbsp;</p>

<p>More people were forced to evacuate on Thursday, some via private speed boats, and head to the nearby port city of Volos, as flames rekindled.</p>

<p>Powerful explosions were heard from an ammunition depot in the coastal town of Nea Aghialos, Greek state television ERT reported.</p>

<p>ERT cited unnamed sources to say that the ammunition depot belonged to the Greek air forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There were dozens of blasts which caused glass windows to shatter, people got panic," the mayor of the nearby port city of Volos, the regional capital, Achilleas Beos told Open television.</p>

<p>Ioannis Artopoios, spokesperson of Greek fire brigade said that firefighters made a "superhuman effort" but could not tame the fires in the wider area of Volos and in Aghialos.</p>

<p>The fire brigade said more than 500 wildfires have burned across the country so far this year. While summer fires are common in Greece, scientists say higher temperatures and dryer weather are turning it into a Mediterranean hotspot for climate change.</p>

<p>Mitsotakis said Greece needed to reform its fire fighting and fire prevention policies and do more to alleviate the impact of climate change.</p>

<p>"The climate crisis may be a reality, but it cannot be an excuse," he said during a meeting with President Katerina Sakellaropoulou.</p>

<p>"Our country ought to take more steps ... to be ready to mitigate, as much as possible, the effects of a reality that we are already starting to feel, and that could have dramatic effects on many different aspects of our economic and social life," he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Thursday (July 27) said that the country needed to take more steps to fight the effects of climate change. Wildfires are raging in the central part of the country forcing more evacuations after burning farms and factories overnight.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Thursday (July 27) said that the country needed to take more steps to fight the effects of climate change. Wildfires are raging in the central part of the country forcing more evacuations after burning farms and factories overnight. The blazing fires are stoked more by strong winds and temperatures crossing 40 degrees Celsius mark. Two more deaths were recorded in central Greece on Wednesday. This has taken the death toll from the fires to five. Officials have been ordering evacuations of several communities since Wednesday in the hard-hit area of of Magnesia. It is a coastal area north of Athens. More people were forced to evacuate on Thursday, some via private speed boats, and head to the nearby port city of Volos, as flames rekindled. Powerful explosions were heard from an ammunition depot in the coastal town of Nea Aghialos, Greek state television ERT reported. ERT cited unnamed sources to say that the ammunition depot belonged to the Greek air forces. "There were dozens of blasts which caused glass windows to shatter, people got panic," the mayor of the nearby port city of Volos, the regional capital, Achilleas Beos told Open television. Ioannis Artopoios, spokesperson of Greek fire brigade said that firefighters made a "superhuman effort" but could not tame the fires in the wider area of Volos and in Aghialos. The fire brigade said more than 500 wildfires have burned across the country so far this year. While summer fires are common in Greece, scientists say higher temperatures and dryer weather are turning it into a Mediterranean hotspot for climate change. Mitsotakis said Greece needed to reform its fire fighting and fire prevention policies and do more to alleviate the impact of climate change. "The climate crisis may be a reality, but it cannot be an excuse," he said during a meeting with President Katerina Sakellaropoulou. "Our country ought to take more steps ... to be ready to mitigate, as much as possible, the effects of a reality that we are already starting to feel, and that could have dramatic effects on many different aspects of our economic and social life," he said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

'Not an excuse': As wildfires rage, Greek PM says must tackle climate change

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<p>Over 40 people have died in Italy, Algeria and Greece while thousands have been evacuated as wildfires continue to sweep large swaths of the Mediterranean.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thirty-four people have died in Algeria alone, with the coastal province of Bejaia, east of Algiers accounting for 23 deaths. Although Algerian authorities claimed that 80 per cent of the blazes had been put out since Sunday, a massive firefighting effort was still underway to bring the situation under complete control. Some 8,000 firefighting personnel, hundreds of fire engines and aircraft have been pushed into service.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Italy hit by wildfires</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Italy has been hit by contrasting weather conditions with deadly storms engulfing the north while scorching heat, tempering the land in Sicily as well as several southern regions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a BBC report, an elderly couple in their 70s was charred to death in a holiday home in Palermo, after fire came close to the boundary of the city's airport. An 88-year-old woman also died near the city.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/around-2500-tourists-evacuated-from-greek-island-of-corfu-amid-raging-wildfires-618841">Around 2,500 tourists evacuated from Greek island of Corfu amid raging wildfires</a></strong></p>

<p>In Calabria, located east of Sicily, a man touching 100 was trapped by flames in his home while his daughter and son-in-law suffered burns while trying to save him.</p>

<p>Fires have also raged in neighbouring Tunisia, where 300 people had to be evacuated from the coastal village of Melloula.</p>

<h2><strong>Greece suffers&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier this week, two pilots died in a tragic incident after a&nbsp;plane they were operating crashed on the island of Evia, near Athens, where a fire had been raging for several days.</p>

<p>The aircraft, a Canadair CL-215 belonging to the Greek air force, was shown in footage dropping water over a fire before crashing into a hillside and catching fire.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-record-ocean-temperatures-observed-in-florida-mediterranean-burns-like-blowtorch-619743"><b>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Record ocean temperatures observed in Florida | Mediterranean burns like blowtorch</b></a></p>

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<p>The situation in Greece has been dire due to rampant wildfires, with the island of Rhodes being severely affected. The blazes have been raging since Wednesday and intensified due to hot and windy conditions.</p>

<p>"For the next few weeks, we must be on constant alert. We are at war. We will rebuild what we lost, we will compensate those who were hurt," Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis told parliament, as quoted by Reuters.</p>

<p>"The climate crisis is already here, it will manifest itself everywhere in the Mediterranean with greater disasters," he said.</p>

<p>According to experts, the Mediterranean burning like a blowtorch may have never happened without human-induced climate change.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Over 40 people have died in Italy, Algeria and Greece while thousands have been evacuated as wildfires continue to sweep large swaths of the Mediterranean. Thirty-four people have died in Algeria alone, with the coastal province of Bejaia, east of Algiers accounting for 23 deaths.

Over 40 people have died in Italy, Algeria and Greece while thousands have been evacuated as wildfires continue to sweep large swaths of the Mediterranean. Thirty-four people have died in Algeria alone, with the coastal province of Bejaia, east of Algiers accounting for 23 deaths. Although Algerian authorities claimed that 80 per cent of the blazes had been put out since Sunday, a massive firefighting effort was still underway to bring the situation under complete control. Some 8,000 firefighting personnel, hundreds of fire engines and aircraft have been pushed into service. Italy hit by wildfires Meanwhile, Italy has been hit by contrasting weather conditions with deadly storms engulfing the north while scorching heat, tempering the land in Sicily as well as several southern regions. According to a BBC report, an elderly couple in their 70s was charred to death in a holiday home in Palermo, after fire came close to the boundary of the city's airport. An 88-year-old woman also died near the city. Also read | Around 2,500 tourists evacuated from Greek island of Corfu amid raging wildfires In Calabria, located east of Sicily, a man touching 100 was trapped by flames in his home while his daughter and son-in-law suffered burns while trying to save him. Fires have also raged in neighbouring Tunisia, where 300 people had to be evacuated from the coastal village of Melloula. Greece suffers Earlier this week, two pilots died in a tragic incident after a plane they were operating crashed on the island of Evia, near Athens, where a fire had been raging for several days. The aircraft, a Canadair CL-215 belonging to the Greek air force, was shown in footage dropping water over a fire before crashing into a hillside and catching fire. Watch | Gravitas: Record ocean temperatures observed in Florida | Mediterranean burns like blowtorch × The situation in Greece has been dire due to rampant wildfires, with the island of Rhodes being severely affected. The blazes have been raging since Wednesday and intensified due to hot and windy conditions. "For the next few weeks, we must be on constant alert. We are at war. We will rebuild what we lost, we will compensate those who were hurt," Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis told parliament, as quoted by Reuters. "The climate crisis is already here, it will manifest itself everywhere in the Mediterranean with greater disasters," he said. According to experts, the Mediterranean burning like a blowtorch may have never happened without human-induced climate change. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Mediterranean continues to burn as wildfires kill more than 40

<p>Two people have been confirmed dead in a tragic incident after a Canadair CL-215 plane, operated by the Greek air force, crashed. As per reports, the victims were identified as a 34-year-old commander and his 37-year-old co-pilot. The accident occurred about 30 minutes away from the town of Karystos on the island of Evia, near Athens, where a fire had been raging for several days.</p>

<p>The wildfires in Greece have had devastating consequences, with the plane crash now adding to the tragedy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The aircraft, a Canadair CL-215 belonging to the Greek air force, was shown in footage dropping water over a fire before crashing into a hillside and catching fire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/strategic-trust-eroded-indian-nsa-ajit-doval-minces-no-words-in-talks-with-china-619212">‘Strategic trust eroded,’ Indian NSA Ajit Doval minces no words in talks with China</a></p>

<p>After the tragedy, two helicopters were deployed for search and rescue operations.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ongoing wildfires in Rhodes</strong></h2>

<p>The situation in Greece has been dire due to rampant wildfires, with the island of Rhodes being severely affected.&nbsp;The blazes have been raging since Wednesday and intensified due to hot and windy conditions.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">BREAKING: A firefighting plane has crashed in Greece amid ongoing wildfires<a href="https://t.co/JkYbX2Zsmw">pic.twitter.com/JkYbX2Zsmw</a></p>
— The Spectator Index (@spectatorindex) <a href="https://twitter.com/spectatorindex/status/1683818831066853376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>As a result, many homes were destroyed, and thousands of tourists on the island were forced to evacuate.</p>

<h2><strong>Efforts to combat fire&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>To combat the wildfires, hundreds of firefighters, along with assistance from Turkey and Slovakia, have been tirelessly battling the flames.&nbsp;Emergency flights were arranged to evacuate holidaymakers from affected areas.</p>

<p>Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis acknowledged the severity of the situation and warned that tough days were ahead.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-banks-pressed-to-rectify-inaccurate-financial-statements-heres-why-619208">US banks pressed to rectify ‘inaccurate’ financial statements. Here's why</a></p>

<p>"All of us are standing guard," he said adding, "In the face of what the entire planet is facing, especially the Mediterranean which is a climate change hot-spot, there is no magical defence mechanism, if there was we would have implemented it."</p>

<h2><strong>Climate change's role in extreme heatwaves</strong></h2>

<p>The wildfires in Greece occurred amid a larger trend of extreme heatwaves sweeping across various parts of the world.&nbsp;Scientists have indicated that human-induced climate change played a significant role in these heatwaves, affecting regions like North America, southern Europe, and China.</p>

<p>Greece has been experiencing exceptionally high temperatures, and the weather conditions are expected to worsen in the coming days. The authorities are closely monitoring the situation to mitigate further risks of wildfires and ensure the safety of the population.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | UK: Boris Johnson's former aide gets life peerage; controversy over 'young' peers&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Authorities in Greece, including a prosecutor on Rhodes, launched an investigation to determine the causes of the fires and evaluate the preparedness and response of authorities.</p>

<p>A significant portion of the island's land area has already been consumed by the flames. Tourism, a crucial economic sector in Greece, has been severely affected, especially on Rhodes, a popular summer destination.</p>

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Two people have been confirmed dead in a tragic incident after a Canadair CL-215 plane, operated by the Greek air force, crashed. As per reports, the victims were identified as a 34-year-old commander and his 37-year-old co-pilot.

Two people have been confirmed dead in a tragic incident after a Canadair CL-215 plane, operated by the Greek air force, crashed. As per reports, the victims were identified as a 34-year-old commander and his 37-year-old co-pilot. The accident occurred about 30 minutes away from the town of Karystos on the island of Evia, near Athens, where a fire had been raging for several days. The wildfires in Greece have had devastating consequences, with the plane crash now adding to the tragedy. The aircraft, a Canadair CL-215 belonging to the Greek air force, was shown in footage dropping water over a fire before crashing into a hillside and catching fire. Also Read | ‘Strategic trust eroded,’ Indian NSA Ajit Doval minces no words in talks with China After the tragedy, two helicopters were deployed for search and rescue operations. Ongoing wildfires in Rhodes The situation in Greece has been dire due to rampant wildfires, with the island of Rhodes being severely affected. The blazes have been raging since Wednesday and intensified due to hot and windy conditions. BREAKING: A firefighting plane has crashed in Greece amid ongoing wildfirespic.twitter.com/JkYbX2Zsmw — The Spectator Index (@spectatorindex) July 25, 2023 × As a result, many homes were destroyed, and thousands of tourists on the island were forced to evacuate. Efforts to combat fire To combat the wildfires, hundreds of firefighters, along with assistance from Turkey and Slovakia, have been tirelessly battling the flames. Emergency flights were arranged to evacuate holidaymakers from affected areas. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis acknowledged the severity of the situation and warned that tough days were ahead. Also Read | US banks pressed to rectify ‘inaccurate’ financial statements. Here's why "All of us are standing guard," he said adding, "In the face of what the entire planet is facing, especially the Mediterranean which is a climate change hot-spot, there is no magical defence mechanism, if there was we would have implemented it." Climate change's role in extreme heatwaves The wildfires in Greece occurred amid a larger trend of extreme heatwaves sweeping across various parts of the world. Scientists have indicated that human-induced climate change played a significant role in these heatwaves, affecting regions like North America, southern Europe, and China. Greece has been experiencing exceptionally high temperatures, and the weather conditions are expected to worsen in the coming days. The authorities are closely monitoring the situation to mitigate further risks of wildfires and ensure the safety of the population. Watch | UK: Boris Johnson's former aide gets life peerage; controversy over 'young' peers × Authorities in Greece, including a prosecutor on Rhodes, launched an investigation to determine the causes of the fires and evaluate the preparedness and response of authorities. A significant portion of the island's land area has already been consumed by the flames. Tourism, a crucial economic sector in Greece, has been severely affected, especially on Rhodes, a popular summer destination. 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. ×

Video | Two dead after plane fighting wildfires in Greece crashes, bursts into flames

Wildfires in Greece have turned into a catastrophic calamity. Raging flames are scorching Rhode island and approximately 20,000 have been moved overnight most of them tourists Rhode island is a popular destination among British tourists holidaymakers say they had to walk for miles in the searing heat to reach safety.

Extreme heatwave grips Greece, wildfire forces 20,000 people to leave home | World News

Wildfires in Greece have turned into a catastrophic calamity. Raging flames are scorching Rhode island and approximately 19,000 have been moved overnight most of them tourists. Rhode island is a popular destination among British tourists. holidaymakers say they had to walk for miles in the searing heat to reach safety.

Greek wildfire in Rhode island forces largest-ever fire evacuation

<p>Law enforcement agencies from five countries disrupted an intercontinental criminal network involved in smuggling migrants from Cuba to the European Union, said Europol, in a statement, on Monday (July 24). The investigation coordinated by Europol and Interpol also led to the arrest of 62 people, out of which 25 were Cuban nationals.</p>

<h2><strong>About the operation</strong></h2>

<p>The operation was conducted by Germany’s Bundespolizei (Federal Police); Hellenic Police and Coast Guard (Greece); Interior Ministry of North Macedonia; Policía Nacional (Spain); and Serbian Interior Ministry and Criminal Police Directorate, Service for Combating Organized Crime.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The investigation began back in October 2021 when the Serbian, Greek, North Macedonian and Finnish authorities reported a rise in the number of Cuban citizens trying to enter Europe with “falsified documentation”. In January 2023, multiple European agencies, including Europol, issued a joint intelligence notification on the trend.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-hosts-migration-conference-as-pm-meloni-eu-hope-to-extend-tunisia-deal-to-other-nations-618682">Italy hosts migration conference as PM Meloni, EU hope to extend Tunisia deal to other nations</a></strong></p>

<p>The investigation revealed a “complex criminal infrastructure” which was set up in Spain, Greece and Serbia. The operation also led to the seizure of 18 pieces of real estate, 33 vehicles and 144 bank accounts, alongside vast sums of cash in various currencies, said Europol.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Law enforcement agencies believe that the criminal network has successfully smuggled around 5,000 Cuban nationals into the EU and generated a profit of $49 million (45 million euros).&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Modus operandi of smugglers</strong></h2>

<p>According to the European intelligence agency, the alleged smugglers used a “well-known messaging application”, which was not named, to advertise their “illicit services” to Cubans in vulnerable situations. The members of the migrant smuggling network would charge $9,969 (9,000 euros) and organise the trip, and transfers, and provide false documentation, said Europol.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The European agencies in their notification, issued earlier this year, also noted the effect of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on the criminal network’s operations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Previously, Cuban nationals would fly to Russia on commercial flights and from there they could either cross the Finnish-Russian border to enter the EU or fly to Serbia and travel through central or southern Europe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, since the conflict began back in February 2022, Cuban nationals have been flown to Serbia via Germany and upon their arrival in Belgrade the smugglers would facilitate their “irregular entry” into North Macedonia and Greece by land.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-willfully-ignoring-deaths-of-nearly-300-children-this-year-trying-to-cross-mediterranean-un-615785">Nearly 300 children died this year trying to cross Mediterranean Sea: UN</a></strong></p>

<p>Once the migrants reached Greece they would either apply for asylum or travel to other EU countries organised by the criminal network, like flights to Spain or sea transport to Italy. They would also provide forged documents to travel within the EU.</p>

<h2><strong>Risks of the journey</strong></h2>

<p>According to the European intelligence agency, during land journeys smugglers would direct large groups of migrants and make them walk in the dark without supplies for hours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In addition to these arduous conditions, the criminals would take advantage of the most vulnerable migrants, including minors, and subject them to scams, robberies, and extortion,” said Europol, in a statement. &nbsp;</p>

<p>It added, “In some cases, women were transferred to other criminal groups for sexual exploitation.”<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Law enforcement agencies from five countries disrupted an intercontinental criminal network involved in smuggling migrants from Cuba to the European Union, said Europol, in a statement, on Monday (July 24).

Law enforcement agencies from five countries disrupted an intercontinental criminal network involved in smuggling migrants from Cuba to the European Union, said Europol, in a statement, on Monday (July 24). The investigation coordinated by Europol and Interpol also led to the arrest of 62 people, out of which 25 were Cuban nationals. About the operation The operation was conducted by Germany’s Bundespolizei (Federal Police); Hellenic Police and Coast Guard (Greece); Interior Ministry of North Macedonia; Policía Nacional (Spain); and Serbian Interior Ministry and Criminal Police Directorate, Service for Combating Organized Crime. The investigation began back in October 2021 when the Serbian, Greek, North Macedonian and Finnish authorities reported a rise in the number of Cuban citizens trying to enter Europe with “falsified documentation”. In January 2023, multiple European agencies, including Europol, issued a joint intelligence notification on the trend. ALSO READ | Italy hosts migration conference as PM Meloni, EU hope to extend Tunisia deal to other nations The investigation revealed a “complex criminal infrastructure” which was set up in Spain, Greece and Serbia. The operation also led to the seizure of 18 pieces of real estate, 33 vehicles and 144 bank accounts, alongside vast sums of cash in various currencies, said Europol. Law enforcement agencies believe that the criminal network has successfully smuggled around 5,000 Cuban nationals into the EU and generated a profit of $49 million (45 million euros). Modus operandi of smugglers According to the European intelligence agency, the alleged smugglers used a “well-known messaging application”, which was not named, to advertise their “illicit services” to Cubans in vulnerable situations. The members of the migrant smuggling network would charge $9,969 (9,000 euros) and organise the trip, and transfers, and provide false documentation, said Europol. The European agencies in their notification, issued earlier this year, also noted the effect of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on the criminal network’s operations. Previously, Cuban nationals would fly to Russia on commercial flights and from there they could either cross the Finnish-Russian border to enter the EU or fly to Serbia and travel through central or southern Europe. However, since the conflict began back in February 2022, Cuban nationals have been flown to Serbia via Germany and upon their arrival in Belgrade the smugglers would facilitate their “irregular entry” into North Macedonia and Greece by land. ALSO READ | Nearly 300 children died this year trying to cross Mediterranean Sea: UN Once the migrants reached Greece they would either apply for asylum or travel to other EU countries organised by the criminal network, like flights to Spain or sea transport to Italy. They would also provide forged documents to travel within the EU. Risks of the journey According to the European intelligence agency, during land journeys smugglers would direct large groups of migrants and make them walk in the dark without supplies for hours. “In addition to these arduous conditions, the criminals would take advantage of the most vulnerable migrants, including minors, and subject them to scams, robberies, and extortion,” said Europol, in a statement. It added, “In some cases, women were transferred to other criminal groups for sexual exploitation.” 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.

62 alleged migrant smugglers arrested in Europol-Interpol human trafficking crackdown

Moving on from India to neighbouring countries of Pakistan and Afghanistan. Where monsoon rainfall continues to cause problems. The torrential rains have caused flooding, landslides leading to loss of lives and damage to infrastructure. In Pakistan, at least 13 people have died and seven have been injured due to landslides and heavy rains. Nine people lost their lives in rain-related incidents over the last 48 hours in the northwestern province of khyber pakhtunkhwa. Heavy rainfall & thunderstorms wreaked havoc, causing damage to dozens of houses in the region.

Greece wildfire in Rhode Islands forces tourists to flee

<p>An under-construction bridge in western Greece collapsed on Sunday (July 23) and killed at least one person while several were trapped underneath, police told news agency AFP. Separately, the wildfires continued to rage across the Greek island of Rhodes which prompted the biggest evacuation operation ever in response to a fire the country has ever witnessed.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Under-construction bridge collapses</strong></h2>

<p>A report by AFP citing rescuers said that a bridge that was under construction collapsed near the city of Patras and some people were trapped underneath.&nbsp;The Greek police later reported that at least one person was killed and eight others were injured.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We can confirm that the bridge collapsed. We are operating at the scene. There are people trapped but we don't know the exact number,” the fire brigade told AFP earlier. The&nbsp;bridge, located in the Proastio area on the road to the capital city of Athens, had been&nbsp;closed last week due to reconstruction works, said a&nbsp;fire brigade official.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Evacuations underway in Rhodes</strong></h2>

<p>According to Greek police, the wildfires on the island of Rhodes have sparked the biggest Greek evacuation operation ever in response to a fire. “We had to evacuate an area of 30,000 people. Everything thank God went smoothly. Everybody, especially tourists, followed what we ordered,” Konstantia Dimoglidou, Greek police spokeswoman told AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She added, “This is the biggest fire evacuation ever in Greece.” This comes as wildfires continued to rage across the Greek island of Rhodes, on Sunday, as thousands were evacuated from coastal villages and resorts.</p>

<p>Tourists and island residents were told to shelter in schools and indoor stadiums while thousands spent the night outdoors. A day earlier,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wildfire-on-greek-island-of-rhodes-prompts-evacuation-of-over-2000-people-618539">more than 2,000 people</a> were evacuated using three coastguard vessels guiding more than 30 private boats from the beaches on the Greek island.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As of Sunday, flames had spread to the seaside villages of Kiotari, Gennadi, Pefki, Lindos, Lardos and Kalathos, while large groups of people were waiting on the streets to be evacuated. “We have between 4,000 and 5,000 people now accommodated at different structures,” said Thanasis Virinis, a vice mayor of Rhodes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A local government official told Reuters that 19,000 people had been moved away from their homes and hotels and 3,000 by boat. So far, no casualties have been reported due to the wildfires. According to Greek state television, more than 250 firefighters, assisted by 15 aircraft, were trying to contain the blaze across the island.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fire brigade spokesman Ioannis Artopoios told local media that evacuees, both island residents and tourists, were housed at hotels, indoor stadiums, conference centres and school buildings. He added, “They have been given food, water and medical help.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Tourists stuck on island, flights cancelled</strong></p>

<p>Tour groups Jet2 and TUI, on Sunday, have cancelled flights departing for Rhodes amid the wildfires, said the two groups, in separate statements. Meanwhile, Britain’s easyJet said it was operating flights as normal to Rhodes and was closely monitoring the situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The British embassy in Athens said that the Greek foreign ministry is setting up a help desk at Rhodes Airport to help tourists leave the island, including those who have lost travel documents.</p>

<p>French, German, Dutch and British citizens were among the tourists on Rhodes which can receive as many as 150,000 visitors in peak season, while the resident population is 125,000. “The smoke was coming. So we all set off on foot. I walked 12 miles in this heat yesterday. It took me four hours,” said British tourist Chris Freestone as per Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also spoke about how TUI did not put on enough coaches for the 800 people at Labranda hotel where he was staying which left guests waiting at the beach for boats that never arrived.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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An under-construction bridge in western Greece collapsed on Sunday (July 23) and killed at least one person while several were trapped underneath, police told news agency AFP.

An under-construction bridge in western Greece collapsed on Sunday (July 23) and killed at least one person while several were trapped underneath, police told news agency AFP. Separately, the wildfires continued to rage across the Greek island of Rhodes which prompted the biggest evacuation operation ever in response to a fire the country has ever witnessed. Under-construction bridge collapses A report by AFP citing rescuers said that a bridge that was under construction collapsed near the city of Patras and some people were trapped underneath. The Greek police later reported that at least one person was killed and eight others were injured. “We can confirm that the bridge collapsed. We are operating at the scene. There are people trapped but we don't know the exact number,” the fire brigade told AFP earlier. The bridge, located in the Proastio area on the road to the capital city of Athens, had been closed last week due to reconstruction works, said a fire brigade official. Evacuations underway in Rhodes According to Greek police, the wildfires on the island of Rhodes have sparked the biggest Greek evacuation operation ever in response to a fire. “We had to evacuate an area of 30,000 people. Everything thank God went smoothly. Everybody, especially tourists, followed what we ordered,” Konstantia Dimoglidou, Greek police spokeswoman told AFP. She added, “This is the biggest fire evacuation ever in Greece.” This comes as wildfires continued to rage across the Greek island of Rhodes, on Sunday, as thousands were evacuated from coastal villages and resorts. Tourists and island residents were told to shelter in schools and indoor stadiums while thousands spent the night outdoors. A day earlier, more than 2,000 people were evacuated using three coastguard vessels guiding more than 30 private boats from the beaches on the Greek island. As of Sunday, flames had spread to the seaside villages of Kiotari, Gennadi, Pefki, Lindos, Lardos and Kalathos, while large groups of people were waiting on the streets to be evacuated. “We have between 4,000 and 5,000 people now accommodated at different structures,” said Thanasis Virinis, a vice mayor of Rhodes. A local government official told Reuters that 19,000 people had been moved away from their homes and hotels and 3,000 by boat. So far, no casualties have been reported due to the wildfires. According to Greek state television, more than 250 firefighters, assisted by 15 aircraft, were trying to contain the blaze across the island. Fire brigade spokesman Ioannis Artopoios told local media that evacuees, both island residents and tourists, were housed at hotels, indoor stadiums, conference centres and school buildings. He added, “They have been given food, water and medical help.” Tourists stuck on island, flights cancelled Tour groups Jet2 and TUI, on Sunday, have cancelled flights departing for Rhodes amid the wildfires, said the two groups, in separate statements. Meanwhile, Britain’s easyJet said it was operating flights as normal to Rhodes and was closely monitoring the situation. The British embassy in Athens said that the Greek foreign ministry is setting up a help desk at Rhodes Airport to help tourists leave the island, including those who have lost travel documents. French, German, Dutch and British citizens were among the tourists on Rhodes which can receive as many as 150,000 visitors in peak season, while the resident population is 125,000. “The smoke was coming. So we all set off on foot. I walked 12 miles in this heat yesterday. It took me four hours,” said British tourist Chris Freestone as per Reuters. He also spoke about how TUI did not put on enough coaches for the 800 people at Labranda hotel where he was staying which left guests waiting at the beach for boats that never arrived. (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.

Greece: One killed after bridge collapses in Patras; Rhodes wildfire forces thousands to evacuate

<p>More than 2,000 people, including tourists, were evacuated from the Greek island of Rhodes as wildfires have been raging out of control for five days, reported the officials in Greece, on Saturday (July 22). Firefighters, using reinforcements from Slovakia, have been working to put out the blaze which has burned for a fifth day, fanned by strong winds.</p>

<h2><strong>About the evacuations</strong></h2>

<p>So far, three coastguard vessels guiding more than 30 private boats have evacuated over 2,000 people, including tourists, from the beaches on the Greek island, according to media reports citing coastguard spokesman Nikos Alexiou.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At least 1,500 of those evacuated from areas of Kiotari and Lardos, in the southeastern part of the popular Mediterranean island, were taken to a safe beach, said the coastguard. Furthermore, those evacuated are being housed at an indoor stadium and at hotels on the island, said Konstantinos Taraslias, a deputy mayor of Rhodes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the coastguard said that three passenger ferries were committed to host tourists during the night, reported Reuters. According to the Greek media, the fire has scorched large parts of the forest since it first broke out on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Three hotels in the seaside village of Kiotari, on Saturday, were reported damaged&nbsp;due to the wildfire and some 30 buses were used to evacuate tourists from two hotels as a precaution. So far, around 30,000 people have been taken away from the evacuated areas, said the local authorities, as per AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Response to the wildfire</strong></h2>

<p>According to reports, firefighters backed by air-water bombers and reinforcements from Slovakia are struggling to put out the new outbreaks of wildfire which have been attributed to strong winds.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We had set up firebreaks around the village of Laerma last night, but a 180-degree change of the winds this morning helped the fire grow much bigger across many kilometres...reaching a tourist area,” Taraslias told Open TV.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, ERT TV reported that some firefighters were stranded in the Ypseni Monastery near Lardos while trying to convince the nuns living there to leave the area. However, the firefighters and their commander were said to be safe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Greek fire spokesperson Ioannis Artopoios said that the wildfire on Rhodes which reportedly broke out on a mountain in the centre of the island has been the most difficult challenge that they have faced yet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The blaze in the Laermon and Lardos areas of the island was reported to be out of control. At least five helicopters and 173 firefighters were operating in the area. This comes as much of Europe, including Greece, is witnessing a heatwave.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Officials have warned of a very high risk of wildfires on Rhodes as well as several parts of Greece on Sunday as temperatures were expected to hit 45 degree&nbsp;Celsius due to the heatwave.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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More than 2,000 people, including tourists, were evacuated from the Greek island of Rhodes as wildfires have been raging out of control for five days, reported the officials in Greece, on Saturday (July 22).

More than 2,000 people, including tourists, were evacuated from the Greek island of Rhodes as wildfires have been raging out of control for five days, reported the officials in Greece, on Saturday (July 22). Firefighters, using reinforcements from Slovakia, have been working to put out the blaze which has burned for a fifth day, fanned by strong winds. About the evacuations So far, three coastguard vessels guiding more than 30 private boats have evacuated over 2,000 people, including tourists, from the beaches on the Greek island, according to media reports citing coastguard spokesman Nikos Alexiou. At least 1,500 of those evacuated from areas of Kiotari and Lardos, in the southeastern part of the popular Mediterranean island, were taken to a safe beach, said the coastguard. Furthermore, those evacuated are being housed at an indoor stadium and at hotels on the island, said Konstantinos Taraslias, a deputy mayor of Rhodes. Meanwhile, the coastguard said that three passenger ferries were committed to host tourists during the night, reported Reuters. According to the Greek media, the fire has scorched large parts of the forest since it first broke out on Tuesday. Three hotels in the seaside village of Kiotari, on Saturday, were reported damaged due to the wildfire and some 30 buses were used to evacuate tourists from two hotels as a precaution. So far, around 30,000 people have been taken away from the evacuated areas, said the local authorities, as per AFP. Response to the wildfire According to reports, firefighters backed by air-water bombers and reinforcements from Slovakia are struggling to put out the new outbreaks of wildfire which have been attributed to strong winds. “We had set up firebreaks around the village of Laerma last night, but a 180-degree change of the winds this morning helped the fire grow much bigger across many kilometres...reaching a tourist area,” Taraslias told Open TV. Meanwhile, ERT TV reported that some firefighters were stranded in the Ypseni Monastery near Lardos while trying to convince the nuns living there to leave the area. However, the firefighters and their commander were said to be safe. Greek fire spokesperson Ioannis Artopoios said that the wildfire on Rhodes which reportedly broke out on a mountain in the centre of the island has been the most difficult challenge that they have faced yet. The blaze in the Laermon and Lardos areas of the island was reported to be out of control. At least five helicopters and 173 firefighters were operating in the area. This comes as much of Europe, including Greece, is witnessing a heatwave. Officials have warned of a very high risk of wildfires on Rhodes as well as several parts of Greece on Sunday as temperatures were expected to hit 45 degree Celsius due to the heatwave. (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.

Wildfire on Greek island of Rhodes prompts evacuation of over 2,000 people

Global heatwave grips continents: Record-breaking temperatures worldwide

<p>Greece is struggling to contain wildfires west of Athens as they continued to rage on the fifth day on Friday (July 21). The country is experiencing another heatwave. Reuters quoted fire service official who said that concerns have grown after the fire severely damaged more than 100 houses and businesses. Another fire near Athens was put out earlier by the authorities.</p>

<p>Relief measures for afflicted households were announced by the government on Friday. These included financial aid and subsidies to rent houses.</p>

<p>Reuters spoke with a 63-year-old Dimitris Michaelos whose home was saved. He refused to leave his home when authorities asked hundreds of residents to evacuate.</p>

<p>Michaelos says the lack of prevention of wildfires is to be blamed for the current situation. Wildfires destroy property each year in Greece.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Humans often responsible for wildfires: German fire officer</strong></p>

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<p>In 2022, Greece drastically increased spending on&nbsp;fire prevention and preparedness, and created a climate crisis bureau for the first time.</p>

<p>The programme involved creating and maintaining anti-fire zones, increase in patrolling and exercises to boost fire readiness. An EU-coordinated “pre-positioning project”, where firefighters from EU member states are stationed on rotation inside the country throughout the summer is also in effect.</p>

<p>European countries are taking steps to help Greece battle the flames. On Friday, reinforcements were to arrive from countries like Cyprus, France, Israel, Romania, Poland, Slovakia, and Italy. The reinforcements include firefighters and aircraft.</p>

<p>The Greek authorities have appealed people to remain on guard. Risk of wildfires remains high in the coming days. In addition, high temperatures are forecast following on from previous heatwave.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/extreme-heatwaves-to-continue-through-august-wmo-adviser-says-618150">Extreme heatwaves to continue through August, WMO adviser says</a></strong></p>

<p>"We are having a very difficult three-day spell, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, with extreme weather conditions and very high temperatures followed by strong winds," said Vassilis Kikilias, the Climate Crisis Minister. He added that after a short respite, another heatwave is likely to strike in the middle of next week.</p>

<h2><strong>The 'hottest' capital in Europe</strong></h2>

<p>Athens has become one of Europe's hottest capitals as the residents face heatwaves amid shrinking green spaces. Experts are warning that despite Athens' vulnerability to high temperatures, the city has failed to make environmental innovations.</p>

<p>Residents and visitors in the city have had to tackle scorching heat. The weekend forecast says that the mercury will reach the high of 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit). This has prompted authorities to close the Acropoli &nbsp;and some major parks.</p>

<p>In 2007, the more than three million residents of the city experienced a record high temperature of 44.8ºC.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Greece is struggling to contain wildfires west of Athens as they continued to rage on the fifth day on Friday (July 21). The country is experiencing another heatwave.

Greece is struggling to contain wildfires west of Athens as they continued to rage on the fifth day on Friday (July 21). The country is experiencing another heatwave. Reuters quoted fire service official who said that concerns have grown after the fire severely damaged more than 100 houses and businesses. Another fire near Athens was put out earlier by the authorities. Relief measures for afflicted households were announced by the government on Friday. These included financial aid and subsidies to rent houses. Reuters spoke with a 63-year-old Dimitris Michaelos whose home was saved. He refused to leave his home when authorities asked hundreds of residents to evacuate. Michaelos says the lack of prevention of wildfires is to be blamed for the current situation. Wildfires destroy property each year in Greece. Watch | Humans often responsible for wildfires: German fire officer × In 2022, Greece drastically increased spending on fire prevention and preparedness, and created a climate crisis bureau for the first time. The programme involved creating and maintaining anti-fire zones, increase in patrolling and exercises to boost fire readiness. An EU-coordinated “pre-positioning project”, where firefighters from EU member states are stationed on rotation inside the country throughout the summer is also in effect. European countries are taking steps to help Greece battle the flames. On Friday, reinforcements were to arrive from countries like Cyprus, France, Israel, Romania, Poland, Slovakia, and Italy. The reinforcements include firefighters and aircraft. The Greek authorities have appealed people to remain on guard. Risk of wildfires remains high in the coming days. In addition, high temperatures are forecast following on from previous heatwave. Also Read | Extreme heatwaves to continue through August, WMO adviser says "We are having a very difficult three-day spell, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, with extreme weather conditions and very high temperatures followed by strong winds," said Vassilis Kikilias, the Climate Crisis Minister. He added that after a short respite, another heatwave is likely to strike in the middle of next week. The 'hottest' capital in Europe Athens has become one of Europe's hottest capitals as the residents face heatwaves amid shrinking green spaces. Experts are warning that despite Athens' vulnerability to high temperatures, the city has failed to make environmental innovations. Residents and visitors in the city have had to tackle scorching heat. The weekend forecast says that the mercury will reach the high of 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit). This has prompted authorities to close the Acropoli and some major parks. In 2007, the more than three million residents of the city experienced a record high temperature of 44.8ºC. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Greece battles wildfires for fifth day amid heatwave

<p>Temperatures soared to almost 47 degrees Celcius in southern Italy on Wednesday (July 19) as factory workers threatened to go on strike over the extreme heat. Heat records were broken in coastal waters around Spain even as wildfires continued to rage in Greece.</p>

<p>In Italy's Sicily, where a record temperature of 48.8C was registered in August 2021, the mercury soared to 47C in the area between Sciacca, in Agrigento province, and Mazara del Vallo, in the province of Trapani, as per the data from ilMeteo.it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Temperatures in Sardinia soared to 46C while in Rome, where people faced energy blackouts on Tuesday because of the pressure on the grid due to the air conditioners, it peaked at 38C.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/millions-battle-record-heatwaves-as-temperatures-dangerously-soar-in-us-europe-616127">Millions battle record heatwaves as temperatures dangerously soar in US, Europe</a></p>

<p>“This is apocalyptic,” stated Claudia Bivona, who works as a teacher in Trapani, while speaking to The Guardian. “Something we had never experienced before. And it will get worse and worse. I’m thinking of the elderly and also of animals. What is happening is not normal," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nuccia Orlando, who has been working at a hospital as a nurse in the Sicilian province of Caltanissetta, stated, “We are melting. This heat is absurd. My car’s thermometer registered 52C inside the vehicle today. Of course, I had left it in the sun. But still, we are talking about 52C.”</p>

<h2><strong>Information line to be activated for deaths occurring due to heat</strong></h2>

<p>Italy’s Health Minister Orazio Schillaci stated that they will activate information line concerns about deaths that are occurring from heat-related illnesses. A man, who was in his 60s, lost his life in a heat-related illness after he fainted in his bakery near the northern city of Padua, and last week, a 44-year-old road worker died in Milan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“You can protect yourself against the heat in a major way by drinking lots of water, opting for a diet based on vegetables and fresh fruit and avoiding excessive consumption of fatty foods and alcohol,” said Schillaci. “Special attention should be paid to the most fragile, elderly and children," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Stellantis, the carmaker, stated that the situation in the Pomigliano d’Arco plant near Naples was monitored by them after workers were freed early on Tuesday because of too much heat. Workers employed by battery maker Magneti Marelli said that they will hold an eight-hour strike at a plant in Sulmona, in the central Abruzzo region. The unions issued a statement saying that the “asphyxiating heat is putting the lives of workers at risk”.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Floods and heatwaves grip the globe</strong></p>

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<p>The CGIL union stated that temperatures were nearing 40C in factories in the southern region of Basilicata. “The arrival of the heat is a serious problem for workers because it puts their health and safety at risk. After the Stellantis case we are getting many signals from several factories across the region. For this reason we ask workers to turn to their unions if health and safety guarantees are not being met," it said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Concern has been expressed by the unions for agricultural workers, many of whom are seasonal workers who work outside the EU, as well as construction workers.&nbsp;</p>

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Temperatures soared to almost 47 degrees Celcius in southern Italy on Wednesday (July 19) as factory workers threatened to go on strike over the extreme heat. Heat records were broken in coastal waters around Spain even as wildfires continued to rage in Greece.

Temperatures soared to almost 47 degrees Celcius in southern Italy on Wednesday (July 19) as factory workers threatened to go on strike over the extreme heat. Heat records were broken in coastal waters around Spain even as wildfires continued to rage in Greece. In Italy's Sicily, where a record temperature of 48.8C was registered in August 2021, the mercury soared to 47C in the area between Sciacca, in Agrigento province, and Mazara del Vallo, in the province of Trapani, as per the data from ilMeteo.it. Temperatures in Sardinia soared to 46C while in Rome, where people faced energy blackouts on Tuesday because of the pressure on the grid due to the air conditioners, it peaked at 38C. ALSO READ | Millions battle record heatwaves as temperatures dangerously soar in US, Europe “This is apocalyptic,” stated Claudia Bivona, who works as a teacher in Trapani, while speaking to The Guardian. “Something we had never experienced before. And it will get worse and worse. I’m thinking of the elderly and also of animals. What is happening is not normal," she added. Nuccia Orlando, who has been working at a hospital as a nurse in the Sicilian province of Caltanissetta, stated, “We are melting. This heat is absurd. My car’s thermometer registered 52C inside the vehicle today. Of course, I had left it in the sun. But still, we are talking about 52C.” Information line to be activated for deaths occurring due to heat Italy’s Health Minister Orazio Schillaci stated that they will activate information line concerns about deaths that are occurring from heat-related illnesses. A man, who was in his 60s, lost his life in a heat-related illness after he fainted in his bakery near the northern city of Padua, and last week, a 44-year-old road worker died in Milan. “You can protect yourself against the heat in a major way by drinking lots of water, opting for a diet based on vegetables and fresh fruit and avoiding excessive consumption of fatty foods and alcohol,” said Schillaci. “Special attention should be paid to the most fragile, elderly and children," he added. Stellantis, the carmaker, stated that the situation in the Pomigliano d’Arco plant near Naples was monitored by them after workers were freed early on Tuesday because of too much heat. Workers employed by battery maker Magneti Marelli said that they will hold an eight-hour strike at a plant in Sulmona, in the central Abruzzo region. The unions issued a statement saying that the “asphyxiating heat is putting the lives of workers at risk”. WATCH | Gravitas: Floods and heatwaves grip the globe The CGIL union stated that temperatures were nearing 40C in factories in the southern region of Basilicata. “The arrival of the heat is a serious problem for workers because it puts their health and safety at risk. After the Stellantis case we are getting many signals from several factories across the region. For this reason we ask workers to turn to their unions if health and safety guarantees are not being met," it said. Concern has been expressed by the unions for agricultural workers, many of whom are seasonal workers who work outside the EU, as well as construction workers. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Extreme heat roils Europe: Workers warn of strike in Italy and stoppages in Greece

Greek wildfires continue till third day, EU allies send aid

<p>The Greek police on Monday (July 17) said they have arrested a man suspected of starting the wildfire near the capital city of Athens, which has since prompted the evacuation of thousands. The blaze is said to have been fuelled by a heatwave and strong winds, according to&nbsp;firefighters.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Wildfires prompt evacuations</strong></h2>

<p>Multiple wildfires have been reported across southern Greece after the fire was said to have been started in Kouvaras which is some 50 kilometres southeast of Athens and spread fast amid erratic winds up to 70 km/hour.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The blaze quickly spread south toward the Attica region as well as Lagonissi, Anavyssos and Saronida, where several homes were burned, reported AFP citing footage by the public broadcaster ERT. Several houses and cars were also seen gutted by the fire while thick white smoke billowed in wooded areas. &nbsp;</p>

<p>According to reports, another wildfire was reported in the popular beach town of Loutraki where the town’s mayor, Giorgos Gkionis, said, “We have saved 1,200 children who were in the holiday camps.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The army, police special forces and volunteer rescuers also evacuated a rehabilitation centre for seniors and rescued horses from a stable in the area, reported the Associated Press.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, firefighters were also trying to tackle the flame near Lagonisi, some 40 kilometres southeast of the Greek capital, which is home to thousands of seaside vacation houses.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to reports, thick smoke also blocked traffic in the nearby Kalyvia, where the authorities have asked residents to leave the area and the monks were evacuated from a local monastery.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Man arrested for suspected arson</strong></h2>

<p>Fire spokesperson Ioannis Artopoios said that the police have arrested “a foreigner who allegedly caused the fire” in Kouvaras. No other information about the man was immediately available.</p>

<h2><strong>Response to 81 fires in Greece</strong></h2>

<p>Officials were&nbsp;in the midst of battling a total of&nbsp;81 blazes&nbsp;across the country, on&nbsp;Monday.&nbsp;According to local authorities, around 200 firemen, 20 soldiers, 68 engines and 16 aircraft have been deployed to get the blaze under control, said a Greek fire service official, as per Reuters.</p>

<p>“Due to high winds, the blaze spread across 12 kilometres in two hours,” said Artopoios. While the fire brigade has also been placed on standby in the wider Athens area.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, in Loutraki, around&nbsp;135 firemen with 50 fire engines, 40 soldiers and 13 aircraft have been deployed to contain the fire which has since disrupted train services and also prompted officials to shut down a part of the highway, reported Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The conditions are changing constantly and this has to be matched by our response. We have ordered multiple evacuations,” said Artopios, adding that the mountainous terrain and wind have slowed down the firefighting efforts.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
He also spoke about how Tuesday will also be a "very difficult day" as there is a "very high risk for fires" and strong winds will persist.</p>

<h2><strong>Heatwave, forest fire warnings in Greece</strong></h2>

<p>This comes as Greece along with the rest of Europe has been witnessing a heatwave since last week with temperatures reaching as high as 44 degree Celsius, in some parts of the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Furthermore, greater Athens and much of southern Greece were placed on the second highest level of alert for wildfires Monday and Tuesday after the four-day heatwave in the country, with some respite over the weekend.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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The Greek police on Monday (July 17) said they have arrested a man suspected of starting the wildfire near the capital city of Athens, which has since prompted the evacuation of thousands.

The Greek police on Monday (July 17) said they have arrested a man suspected of starting the wildfire near the capital city of Athens, which has since prompted the evacuation of thousands. The blaze is said to have been fuelled by a heatwave and strong winds, according to firefighters. Wildfires prompt evacuations Multiple wildfires have been reported across southern Greece after the fire was said to have been started in Kouvaras which is some 50 kilometres southeast of Athens and spread fast amid erratic winds up to 70 km/hour. The blaze quickly spread south toward the Attica region as well as Lagonissi, Anavyssos and Saronida, where several homes were burned, reported AFP citing footage by the public broadcaster ERT. Several houses and cars were also seen gutted by the fire while thick white smoke billowed in wooded areas. According to reports, another wildfire was reported in the popular beach town of Loutraki where the town’s mayor, Giorgos Gkionis, said, “We have saved 1,200 children who were in the holiday camps.” The army, police special forces and volunteer rescuers also evacuated a rehabilitation centre for seniors and rescued horses from a stable in the area, reported the Associated Press. Additionally, firefighters were also trying to tackle the flame near Lagonisi, some 40 kilometres southeast of the Greek capital, which is home to thousands of seaside vacation houses. According to reports, thick smoke also blocked traffic in the nearby Kalyvia, where the authorities have asked residents to leave the area and the monks were evacuated from a local monastery. Man arrested for suspected arson Fire spokesperson Ioannis Artopoios said that the police have arrested “a foreigner who allegedly caused the fire” in Kouvaras. No other information about the man was immediately available. Response to 81 fires in Greece Officials were in the midst of battling a total of 81 blazes across the country, on Monday. According to local authorities, around 200 firemen, 20 soldiers, 68 engines and 16 aircraft have been deployed to get the blaze under control, said a Greek fire service official, as per Reuters. “Due to high winds, the blaze spread across 12 kilometres in two hours,” said Artopoios. While the fire brigade has also been placed on standby in the wider Athens area. Meanwhile, in Loutraki, around 135 firemen with 50 fire engines, 40 soldiers and 13 aircraft have been deployed to contain the fire which has since disrupted train services and also prompted officials to shut down a part of the highway, reported Reuters. “The conditions are changing constantly and this has to be matched by our response. We have ordered multiple evacuations,” said Artopios, adding that the mountainous terrain and wind have slowed down the firefighting efforts. He also spoke about how Tuesday will also be a "very difficult day" as there is a "very high risk for fires" and strong winds will persist. Heatwave, forest fire warnings in Greece This comes as Greece along with the rest of Europe has been witnessing a heatwave since last week with temperatures reaching as high as 44 degree Celsius, in some parts of the country. Furthermore, greater Athens and much of southern Greece were placed on the second highest level of alert for wildfires Monday and Tuesday after the four-day heatwave in the country, with some respite over the weekend. (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.

Greece arrests man suspected of starting wildfire, thousands evacuated near Athens

Much of southern Europe is baking in extreme heat with Greece seeing temperatures of 40 degrees Celsius or more. Acropolis the country's most popular tourist attraction was closed during the hottest hours of the day to protect visitors. Greek authorities proactively shut the gates of its ancient monuments between midday and early evening amid the heat wave. Red Cross staff hunted out bottled water to tourists as temperatures were expected to peak above 40 degrees Celsius in the Greek Capital.

Temperatures soar up to 40 degree Celsius in Greece

According to family sources, Usman Siddique, one of the 12 Pakistanis who survived the catastrophe, landed at his hometown of Kaleki village on the outskirts of Gujrat on Friday. He has visited with several individuals whose loved ones died in the disaster after his return.

Survivor of Greece boat tragedy returns home

<p>A new investigation has revealed that the Greek coastguard's attempts to&nbsp;tow a fishing trawler with hundreds of migrants may have resulted in the trawler sinking. The investigation has been conducted by the Guardian and its media partners. The sinking of the trawler left an estimated 500 people missing. The investigation has raised further questions about the incident.</p>

<p>The trawler was carrying migrants from Libya to Italy and sank off the coast of Greece on June 14. The tragedy left 104 survivors but hundreds more went missing.</p>

<p>The Guardian said that interviews with 20 survivors were carried out. The investigation also drew on court documents and coastguard sources to build a picture of rescue opportunities that were missed and offers of assistance that were ignored. Multiple survivors said that attempts by the Greek coastguard to tow the migrant vessel caused it to sink.</p>

<p>Greek coastguard has assertively denied any attempt to tow the trawler.</p>

<p>Forensis, a Berlin-based research agency founded by Forensic Architecture, recreated the night of the tragedy using an interactive 3D model of the boat</p>

<p>The joint investigation by The Guardian, German public broadcaster ARD/NDR/Funk and Greek investigative outlet Solomon happened in collaboration with Forensis. The investigation has reportedly found new evidence, such as a coastguard vessel moored at a port close by was never sent to the scene of the tragedy. It has also been reportedly found that Greek authorities failed not two but three times to offer help by Frontex, the EU border and coastguard agency.</p>

<p>Forensis made use of data from the coastguard's log and the testimony of the coastguard vessel captain along with flight paths, maritime traffic data, images from satellites and other videos. It mapped the last few hours before the sinking of the vessel.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greece-boat-tragedy-pakistanis-were-singled-out-to-go-below-deck-says-report-606011">Greece boat tragedy: Pakistanis were singled out to go below deck, says report</a></strong></p>

<p>The investigation has reportedly found that the ship's last movements are in contradiction with the information from the coastguard. It reveals inconsistencies in the official account of events.</p>

<p>More importantly, Guardian said it was found that the overcrowded trawler started moving westward after meeting a single Greek coastguard vessel that was sent to the scene.</p>

<h2><strong>Contradicting info</strong></h2>

<p>Multiple survivor testimonies have revealed to the Guardian and Greek prosecutors that the Greek coastguard told the migrants that they will be led to Italy. This contradicts with Greek coastguard's official version that the trawler started moving west on its own. The investigation has also revealed that the trawler had turned to the south and was stationary for an hour before the second towing attempt took place. This proved to be fatal.</p>

<p>Guardian quoted a survivor who said that the trawler was towed for 10 minutes by the Greeks following which it sank.</p>

<p>“I feel that they have tried to push us out of Greek water so that their responsibility ends,” the survivor said as quoted by the Guardian.</p>

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A new investigation has revealed that the Greek coastguard's attempts to tow a fishing trawler with hundreds of migrants may have resulted in the trawler sinking.

A new investigation has revealed that the Greek coastguard's attempts to tow a fishing trawler with hundreds of migrants may have resulted in the trawler sinking. The investigation has been conducted by the Guardian and its media partners. The sinking of the trawler left an estimated 500 people missing. The investigation has raised further questions about the incident. The trawler was carrying migrants from Libya to Italy and sank off the coast of Greece on June 14. The tragedy left 104 survivors but hundreds more went missing. The Guardian said that interviews with 20 survivors were carried out. The investigation also drew on court documents and coastguard sources to build a picture of rescue opportunities that were missed and offers of assistance that were ignored. Multiple survivors said that attempts by the Greek coastguard to tow the migrant vessel caused it to sink. Greek coastguard has assertively denied any attempt to tow the trawler. Forensis, a Berlin-based research agency founded by Forensic Architecture, recreated the night of the tragedy using an interactive 3D model of the boat The joint investigation by The Guardian, German public broadcaster ARD/NDR/Funk and Greek investigative outlet Solomon happened in collaboration with Forensis. The investigation has reportedly found new evidence, such as a coastguard vessel moored at a port close by was never sent to the scene of the tragedy. It has also been reportedly found that Greek authorities failed not two but three times to offer help by Frontex, the EU border and coastguard agency. Forensis made use of data from the coastguard's log and the testimony of the coastguard vessel captain along with flight paths, maritime traffic data, images from satellites and other videos. It mapped the last few hours before the sinking of the vessel. Also Read | Greece boat tragedy: Pakistanis were singled out to go below deck, says report The investigation has reportedly found that the ship's last movements are in contradiction with the information from the coastguard. It reveals inconsistencies in the official account of events. More importantly, Guardian said it was found that the overcrowded trawler started moving westward after meeting a single Greek coastguard vessel that was sent to the scene. Contradicting info Multiple survivor testimonies have revealed to the Guardian and Greek prosecutors that the Greek coastguard told the migrants that they will be led to Italy. This contradicts with Greek coastguard's official version that the trawler started moving west on its own. The investigation has also revealed that the trawler had turned to the south and was stationary for an hour before the second towing attempt took place. This proved to be fatal. Guardian quoted a survivor who said that the trawler was towed for 10 minutes by the Greeks following which it sank. “I feel that they have tried to push us out of Greek water so that their responsibility ends,” the survivor said as quoted by the Guardian. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Investigation into Greek shipwreck suggests coastguard responsible for sinking: Report

<p>Alexis Tsipras, the one-time leftist firebrand who stormed to power on an anti-austerity agenda in Greece in 2015, stepped down from the helm of the Syriza party after 15 years on Thursday, following a heavy election defeat.</p>

<p>At the height of Greece's deep economic crisis, Tsipras, known for sporting his no-tie look, rode a wave of anti-establishment anger to become the country's first leftist prime minister.</p>

<p>Tsipras, and his finance minister at the time Yanis Varoufakis, were global household names when Greece was racked with violent street protests against the international bailouts that saved the country from bankruptcy but imposed painful austerity on Greeks.</p>

<p>Syriza lost to Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis's New Democracy in 2019, and in Sunday's vote, won just 17.8 per cent&nbsp;of the votes, against 40.5 for New Democracy.</p>

<p>"The time has come to start a new cycle," Tsipras said in a televised address announcing his resignation.</p>

<p>"The negative election result can - and must - become the beginning of this cycle," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/europe/greek-elections-mitsotakiss-conservatives-on-track-for-decisive-majority-608629">Greek elections: Mitsotakis's conservatives on track for decisive majority</a></strong></p>

<p>Tsipras said he would not be a candidate in elections for a new party leader.</p>

<p>Tsipras' decision to step down was "sudden", a party source said, but also "the right one for the party's reform and his own legacy". &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>When elected at the age of 40, Tsirpas, an engineer by training and a former member of the Communist youth, was one of Greece's youngest-ever prime ministers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Soon after taking power, he railed against austerity and the bailout programmes backed by the European Union and the International Monetary Fund that he says had triggered a humanitarian crisis in Greece.</p>

<p>But after months of fierce fighting with other eurozone countries, Tsipras was forced in June 2015 to impose capital controls. In July, he won a referendum urging Greeks to reject an offered bailout but made a U-turn and signed up for a tougher programme a month later.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since Greece's third and final bailout programme ended in 2018, the country has regained market access, cut down its record debt and growth is set to outpace the euro zone's average. Public anger has quietened down as a result.</p>

<p>Following an inconclusive general election in May, in which Syriza came second, political analysts said Syriza missed the willingness of the electorate to move away from the crisis years.</p>

<p>"I am proud of everything that happened," Tsipras said on Thursday. "This difficult journey had compromises, and difficult decisions, and injuries and attrition, but it was a journey that left a mark on history."</p>

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Alexis Tsipras, the one-time leftist firebrand who stormed to power on an anti-austerity agenda in Greece in 2015, stepped down from the helm of the Syriza party after 15 years on Thursday, following a heavy election defeat.

Alexis Tsipras, the one-time leftist firebrand who stormed to power on an anti-austerity agenda in Greece in 2015, stepped down from the helm of the Syriza party after 15 years on Thursday, following a heavy election defeat. At the height of Greece's deep economic crisis, Tsipras, known for sporting his no-tie look, rode a wave of anti-establishment anger to become the country's first leftist prime minister. Tsipras, and his finance minister at the time Yanis Varoufakis, were global household names when Greece was racked with violent street protests against the international bailouts that saved the country from bankruptcy but imposed painful austerity on Greeks. Syriza lost to Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis's New Democracy in 2019, and in Sunday's vote, won just 17.8 per cent of the votes, against 40.5 for New Democracy. "The time has come to start a new cycle," Tsipras said in a televised address announcing his resignation. "The negative election result can - and must - become the beginning of this cycle," he said. Also read | Greek elections: Mitsotakis's conservatives on track for decisive majority Tsipras said he would not be a candidate in elections for a new party leader. Tsipras' decision to step down was "sudden", a party source said, but also "the right one for the party's reform and his own legacy". When elected at the age of 40, Tsirpas, an engineer by training and a former member of the Communist youth, was one of Greece's youngest-ever prime ministers. Soon after taking power, he railed against austerity and the bailout programmes backed by the European Union and the International Monetary Fund that he says had triggered a humanitarian crisis in Greece. But after months of fierce fighting with other eurozone countries, Tsipras was forced in June 2015 to impose capital controls. In July, he won a referendum urging Greeks to reject an offered bailout but made a U-turn and signed up for a tougher programme a month later. Since Greece's third and final bailout programme ended in 2018, the country has regained market access, cut down its record debt and growth is set to outpace the euro zone's average. Public anger has quietened down as a result. Following an inconclusive general election in May, in which Syriza came second, political analysts said Syriza missed the willingness of the electorate to move away from the crisis years. "I am proud of everything that happened," Tsipras said on Thursday. "This difficult journey had compromises, and difficult decisions, and injuries and attrition, but it was a journey that left a mark on history." 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 leftist leader Alexis Tsipras resigns as Syriza party leader after crushing poll defeat

<p>Voters in Greece have sent not one but three far-right nationalist parties into the parliament. This has happened for the first time since the restoration of democracy nearly 50 years ago. The parties garnered 12.8 per cent votes between them and have bagged a total of 300 seats in parliament.</p>

<p>Chief amongst them are the Spartans -- whose logo is an ancient warrior's helmet -- a party so little known that local journalists did not even know where their offices were.</p>

<p>The general election they contested on Sunday was their first. The party appeared in opinion polls just two weeks before the vote.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the man who backs the party is widely known in Greece. Ilias Kasidiaris is the former spokesman of the neo-Nazi party Golden Dawn. The party was labelled a criminal organisation by the courts and banned from contesting elections.</p>

<p>Kasidiaris is currently serving a 13-year prison sentence along with other Golden Dawn members for crimes including murder of an anti-fascist rapper.</p>

<p>Hellenes, the party he founded after leaving Golden Dawn, had also been blocked from standing in the polls.</p>

<p>In spite of his criminal record, Kasidiaris' endorsement led to Spartans picking up 140,000 votes and bagging 12 seats.</p>

<p>The party leader Vasilis Stigas thanked Kasidiaris after Sunday's vote, calling him "the fuel that gave us the push to get this result."</p>

<p>Other than the Spartans, the more established pro-Russia party Greek Solution obtained 230,000 votes which was enough to elect 12 lawmakers. The party is led by former telesales marketer Kyriakos Velopoulos.</p>

<p>Velopoulos, whose party first appeared in the 2019 European parliamentary election, used to peddle beeswax as a treatment for hair loss on his television show, as well as letters allegedly written by Jesus Christ.</p>

<p>Other than these two parties, the anti-abortion Victory party bagged 10 seats. It is led by a theologian who is fond of reciting psalms during his speeches.</p>

<p>Its manifesto included a plan to require immigrants to undergo monthly health, working status and penal record checks. Anyone who failed to comply would be expelled from Greece.</p>

<p>"Although I was afraid of the far right's rise, I did not expect us to be facing the most far-right parliament in recent Greek history and one of the worst in Europe," wrote Aristides Chatzis, a law professor at the University of Athens, in Kathimerini daily.</p>

<p>Support appears to be strongest in northern Greece, a traditional stronghold of the right.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Far-right parties took more than 20 per cent of the vote in six electoral districts in the northern Macedonia region.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Voters in Greece have sent not one but three far-right nationalist parties into the parliament. This has happened for the first time since the restoration of democracy nearly 50 years ago.

Voters in Greece have sent not one but three far-right nationalist parties into the parliament. This has happened for the first time since the restoration of democracy nearly 50 years ago. The parties garnered 12.8 per cent votes between them and have bagged a total of 300 seats in parliament. Chief amongst them are the Spartans -- whose logo is an ancient warrior's helmet -- a party so little known that local journalists did not even know where their offices were. The general election they contested on Sunday was their first. The party appeared in opinion polls just two weeks before the vote. However, the man who backs the party is widely known in Greece. Ilias Kasidiaris is the former spokesman of the neo-Nazi party Golden Dawn. The party was labelled a criminal organisation by the courts and banned from contesting elections. Kasidiaris is currently serving a 13-year prison sentence along with other Golden Dawn members for crimes including murder of an anti-fascist rapper. Hellenes, the party he founded after leaving Golden Dawn, had also been blocked from standing in the polls. In spite of his criminal record, Kasidiaris' endorsement led to Spartans picking up 140,000 votes and bagging 12 seats. The party leader Vasilis Stigas thanked Kasidiaris after Sunday's vote, calling him "the fuel that gave us the push to get this result." Other than the Spartans, the more established pro-Russia party Greek Solution obtained 230,000 votes which was enough to elect 12 lawmakers. The party is led by former telesales marketer Kyriakos Velopoulos. Velopoulos, whose party first appeared in the 2019 European parliamentary election, used to peddle beeswax as a treatment for hair loss on his television show, as well as letters allegedly written by Jesus Christ. Other than these two parties, the anti-abortion Victory party bagged 10 seats. It is led by a theologian who is fond of reciting psalms during his speeches. Its manifesto included a plan to require immigrants to undergo monthly health, working status and penal record checks. Anyone who failed to comply would be expelled from Greece. "Although I was afraid of the far right's rise, I did not expect us to be facing the most far-right parliament in recent Greek history and one of the worst in Europe," wrote Aristides Chatzis, a law professor at the University of Athens, in Kathimerini daily. Support appears to be strongest in northern Greece, a traditional stronghold of the right. Far-right parties took more than 20 per cent of the vote in six electoral districts in the northern Macedonia region. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Far-right parties make comeback in Greek parliament

A minimum of 350 Pakistanis were on an overloaded boat that sank in open seas off Greece last week. It was a case of human smuggling where a fishing boat with a capacity of 400 people had over 700 people on board.

Greece boat tragedy: Anger among shipwreck victims` kin

Right-wing or conservative attitudes are becoming more popular in countries such as Italy, Spain, France, Germany, Austria, and Greece. Following the triumph of Greece's new Democratic Party, the debate in Europe has resumed. Kyriakos Mitsotakis will be sworn in as Prime Minister of Greece for the second time.

Greece: Rise of Right in Europe?

greece

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