Greeks Protest US Military Presence in Crete, Citing Gaza Conflict Involvement

Protest Against US Aircraft Carrier in Souda Bay

On December 28, 2023, a significant protest unfolded in Chania, Crete, as thousands of Greek citizens demonstrated against the presence of US military forces, specifically targeting the docking of the USS Gerald Ford aircraft carrier at Souda Port. The mobilization, organized by local peace committees and labor unions, voiced strong opposition to what they described as the Greek government's support for the 'murderous hand of the Israeli state' and the broader implications of NATO's expansion in the region.

Souda Bay: A Strategic US Naval Hub

U.S. Naval Support Activity (NSA) Souda Bay, located on the island of Crete, serves as a critical operational ashore base for US, allied, and partner nation forces. Situated on the Akrotiri Peninsula, it provides strategic access to an all-weather airfield and the Marathi NATO Pier Complex, which features the only deep-water pier in the Mediterranean capable of berthing aircraft carriers. This base has been a continuous US naval presence since 1969 and is vital for power projection in the Eastern Mediterranean, supporting operations across European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility.

Grievances and Calls for Disengagement

Protesters in Chania held banners with slogans such as 'There is no place here for murderers! US and NATO soldiers are not welcome!' Manolis Papadomanolakis, chairman of the Chania Peace Committee, alleged that the Greek government, alongside NATO parties, supports Israel, risking a 'general conflagration.' The demonstrators also highlighted concerns that the expansion of NATO bases transforms Greece into a 'base of war' and a potential target for reprisals. Organizations such as the Communist Party of Greece (KKE), the Greek Committee for International Détente and Peace (EEDYE), the Communist Youth of Greece (KNE), and the All Workers Militant Front (PAME) participated in the protest, advocating for Greece's disengagement from ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia.

Broader Anti-War Sentiment in Greece

The December 2023 protest in Crete is part of a broader wave of anti-imperialist and pro-Palestine sentiment across Greece. For instance, on October 10, 2025, tens of thousands of workers across Greece participated in a general strike for Palestine, with a Greek military base in Souda Bay cited as being 'directly involved in supporting Israeli attacks across the region.' Similarly, on August 11, 2025, nationwide mobilizations against the 'Israeli genocide in Gaza' saw tens of thousands rallying in over 100 locations, including various Greek islands. These ongoing demonstrations underscore a persistent public opposition to Greece's involvement in military alliances and foreign conflicts, particularly those perceived as supporting actions in the Middle East.