Anti-Jewish March in Thessaloniki: Dozens of Pro-Palestinian Activists Demonstrate Against Jews and Israelis

After a march by dozens of pro-Palestinian activists took place in the streets of Thessaloniki, Greece, police in the country opened an investigation to examine whether offenses involving incitement to hatred or violence were committed during the event. 

The march, which sparked fierce reactions in both the public and international arenas, took place in the heart of the city, with participants wearing black shirts featuring the Palestinian flag. The event’s organizers, who belong to the anarchist activist group "Rubicon," described it as an "anti-Zionist tour."

According to reports in the local media, Greek authorities are examining not only the messages heard during the march, but also whether there are grounds to continue the investigation against the event’s organizers. As part of the review, officials are looking into whether Greek law was violated in matters related to incitement to hatred or violence. At this stage, the investigation is still ongoing, and no indictments have yet been filed.

The organizers of the march said the purpose of the event was "to protest the Israeli presence in Thessaloniki and the transformation of the city into a tourist destination for Israelis."

The Central Board of Jewish Communities in Greece (KIS) issued a sharply worded condemnation. Its statement said: "Exactly 95 years after attack squads roamed the streets of Thessaloniki and assaulted Jews, organized groups dressed in black have once again appeared, spreading fear among Jews and Israelis."

The World Jewish Congress also joined the condemnations and made clear that, in its view, the purpose of the march was to intimidate Jews. At the same time, police continue to investigate the circumstances of the event and the messages voiced during it, in order to determine whether offenses were committed under Greek law.