Greece evaluates Cyprus's proposal for Gaza

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has expressed his country's potential willingness to assist in establishing a sea corridor for humanitarian aid to Gaza, provided that complete protection is assured for involved vessels.

During an interview on Politico, Mitsotakis revealed his plans to discuss all possibilities regarding aid with French President Emmanuel Macron and Arab leaders at a Paris summit this week.

Mitsotakis noted Greece's strategic geographical position, which could make it a key player in a maritime aid corridor to Gaza. This statement follows British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's revelation that the U.K. is exploring various methods to deliver aid to Gaza. This comes amidst reports of Britain, France, and the Netherlands contemplating the creation of a maritime corridor.

"If we can deliver humanitarian aid in an organized manner and ensure that this aid reaches those who need it the most, we would be happy to do so," Mitsotakis stated. He cited the recent landing of a plane in Egypt carrying humanitarian aid from Greece as an example. He also highlighted the advantage of a sea corridor, stating, "You can pack much more humanitarian aid in a ship than you can in a truck."

Meanwhile, Cyprus is collaborating with partners in the European Union and the Middle East to establish a sea corridor to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza from Limassol, the island's main port, once conditions allow. In recent days, Cypriot sources revealed that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu did not object to the proposal made by Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides.

However, the Cyprus Mail has reported mixed public opinion in Cyprus regarding the project, suggesting that such a complex operation should be left to larger countries with the necessary resources and expertise. Cyprus has assisted by acting as a transit country for foreign nationals fleeing Israel and allowing military personnel from the United States, Germany, and the Netherlands to be stationed on the island.