A protest broke out on Monday at the port of Argostoli on the Greek island of Kefalonia, where demonstrators gathered to denounce the arrival of a cruise ship carrying Israeli tourists.

The ship, named Crown Iris, docked in the early morning hours under tight police security.

According to Greek media reports, the Crown Iris was transporting approximately 1,500 Israeli tourists and was met with chants and banners condemning Israel’s actions in Gaza. Protesters held Palestinian flags and signs reading “No welcome for war criminals” and “Freedom for Palestine,” as police formed barriers around the port area to prevent clashes.

Authorities deployed heavy police reinforcements from Athens and Patras ahead of the ship’s arrival, anticipating public backlash amid growing anger across Greece over Israel’s ongoing war on Gaza. The island’s local police confirmed that security measures were taken “to ensure the safe docking of the cruise ship and the protection of public order.”

Several Greek solidarity groups, trade unions, and pro-Palestinian organizations reportedly participated in the demonstration, accusing Israel of committing war crimes in Gaza and criticizing the Greek government for maintaining tourism and trade relations with Tel Aviv.

“The people of Greece stand with the people of Palestine,” one protester told local television. “It is shameful that our ports are open to Israeli tourism while Gaza is under siege.”

The Crown Iris is operated by Israeli cruise company Mano Maritime and has been at the center of controversy in recent weeks, with multiple European ports witnessing protests during its docking. Demonstrations have also been reported in Cyprus, Italy, and Spain, where activists called for the suspension of Israeli-linked tourism until the war on Gaza ends.

The protest in Argostoli concluded peacefully after several hours, though local sources said tensions remain high as the ship continues its Mediterranean itinerary.

The event underscores the growing wave of anti-Israeli demonstrations across Europe, as citizens and activists demand an end to the assault on Gaza and call for stronger international measures against the Israeli government. (ILKHA)