Greek Unions Protest Israeli Cruise Ship Repair in Piraeus

Unions Mobilize Against Crown Iris Repair

Trade unions across Greece have launched protests against the scheduled repair work for the Israeli cruise ship Crown Iris at the Public Power Corporation (PPC) pier in Keratsini, Piraeus. The unions are vehemently opposing the allocation of space for the vessel, citing its alleged connections to the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and its reported involvement in operations related to recent conflicts.

The Athens-based World Federation of Trade Unions (WFTU), alongside the Workers Militant Front (PAME), the Metalworkers' Union of Attica & Workers of the Shipbuilding Industry of Greece, and other maritime unions including the Panhellenic Union of Marine Engineers (PEMEN), have called for the immediate revocation of the approval for the Crown Iris. They argue that the space should instead be made available for commercial ships requiring extensive repairs or for new ship constructions.

Allegations of IDF Links and Operational Role

The core of the unions' protest stems from their claims regarding the Crown Iris's operational history. They assert that the ship, operated by Israeli cruise line Mano Maritime, has maintained links to the IDF since the onset of the Gaza war and the Israel-Iran conflict. According to WFTU, the vessel has participated in the rescue of Israelis, including bringing back hundreds of thousands from Cyprus, and was involved in an operation to rescue foreigners stranded during the Iran-Israel war.

Furthermore, the Metalworkers' Union of Attica stated that the Crown Iris 'belongs to the criminal army of the murderous state of Israel' and is used to offer 'moments of relaxation' to Israeli soldiers before they return to active duty. This assertion fuels the unions' demand that no repair or maintenance work be carried out on the ship in Greece.

Broader Context of Anti-War Sentiment in Greece

The protests in Piraeus are part of a wider wave of demonstrations in Greece reflecting strong public opposition to Israel's actions in Gaza. The planned return of the Crown Iris for maintenance has 'touched off a furor' among Greek unions and activists. Unions have condemned the management of Piraeus Port Authority/COSCO for allocating space to the vessel, accusing them of aligning with the government's stance.

The Crown Iris has faced similar protests in other Greek ports in recent weeks and months. Previous demonstrations have occurred in Syros, Rhodes, Agios Nikolaos (Crete), and Volos, with some instances leading to clashes with police and passengers being prevented from disembarking. In one notable incident in Syros, the ship was reportedly forced to reroute to Cyprus due to quayside protests.

Unions Vow Continued Opposition

The protesting unions have declared their unwavering solidarity with the Palestinian people and have urged the Piraeus Regional Union and other port unions to remain on 'militant alert' and refuse to participate in any work that would facilitate the ship's repair. They emphasize their commitment to preventing Greece from becoming complicit in what they describe as a 'genocide' against Palestinians.