SYRIZA, Greece's main opposition party, faces significant internal strife following a major electoral defeat and the resignation of its leader, Aleksis Tsipras. New leader Stefanos Kasselakis's controversial methods have led to the expulsion of key members and the resignation of several MPs, reducing SYRIZA's parliamentary presence. The party's future is uncertain, with potential further resignations possibly demoting it to the third-largest party in parliament. Public opinion polls indicate a decline in support for SYRIZA, with many believing the party will disband under Kasselakis's leadership.

Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Kocyas praised Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan as the most reliable leader in Turkey, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and peace processes between Greece and Turkey. Kocyas highlighted Erdoğan's commitments, including opportunities for the return of Bozcaada Greeks and the reopening of Greek schools. Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras and Education Minister Kostas Gavroğlu also discussed efforts to resolve the mufti election issue in Western Thrace, a topic raised during Erdoğan's recent visit to Greece.

Eva Kaili, a former Vice President of the European Parliament, has been implicated in a major corruption scandal involving bribes from Qatar. The scandal has led to multiple arrests, including Kaili's partner Francesco Giorgi and former Italian MEP Antonio Panzeri. Belgian authorities have seized significant amounts of cash and property linked to the accused. The scandal has shaken the European Parliament and raised questions about the influence of wealthy Gulf states on European politics. Meanwhile, Greek Prime Minister Kiryakos Mitsotakis has been active in addressing minority rights in Albania, contrasting with Greece's stance on its own minority populations.

Turkey and Greece are set to spend billions on American-made fighter jets, a move celebrated by both countries despite the financial burden it places on their citizens. The article criticizes the prioritization of military spending over addressing the high cost of living and economic hardships faced by the public. It highlights the disconnect between government actions and the struggles of ordinary people, who are grappling with inflation and insufficient wage increases. The sentiment towards the United States and the military purchases is largely negative, emphasizing the irony of public celebration over expenditures that exacerbate economic difficulties.

Golden Dawn, a far-right political party in Greece, has been exposed for its close collaboration with the Greek police. This revelation comes from phone recordings presented in court, showing that police officers provided the party with information about anti-racist and leftist protests. The scandal has led to the dismissal of several police officers and anti-terrorism officials. The party, which gained significant support in the 2015 elections, is under scrutiny for its criminal activities, including the murder of rock singer Pavlos Fissas by a party member.

Süleyman Gençel, a journalist known for his opposition to various Turkish governments and his advocacy for peace and justice, has been arrested again on charges related to a decade-old case. Despite facing numerous threats and assaults throughout his career, Gençel remains steadfast in his beliefs. His friend, Greek journalist Stratis Balaskas, also faces legal challenges in Greece for his anti-nationalist writings but has been acquitted multiple times. The article draws parallels between Gençel's situation and other high-profile cases like those of Can Atalay, Osman Kavala, and Selahattin Demirtaş, emphasizing the ongoing struggle for justice.

Reflects on the historical perspective of the conquest of Istanbul, highlighting Orhan Pamuk's view that it should be remembered rather than celebrated due to the loss of life. Discusses the prevalent issues of violence against women and animal cruelty in both countries, noting the frequent news reports of femicides and the often ignored complaints of women subjected to violence.

Inflation in Greece reached a 30-year high of 10.2% in April, with significant increases in food, natural gas, electricity, and gasoline prices. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced financial aid for low-income citizens and criticized the slow response of the EU. Mitsotakis is set to visit the US to discuss a defense cooperation agreement, while opposition leader Alexis Tsipras urged him to oppose Turkey's request for F-16 jets. The article also highlights Greece's shift from anti-American sentiment to closer ties with the US, despite public opposition to military aid to Ukraine. Turkish Airlines celebrated its 75th anniversary of flights to Greece.

Stefanos Kasselakis has been elected as the new leader of Greece's main opposition party, SYRIZA, with 56.6% of the vote. Kasselakis, a relatively unknown figure until recently, gained prominence through self-produced campaign videos and his background in the U.S. financial sector. His election follows the resignation of Alexis Tsipras after SYRIZA's defeat in the June general elections. Kasselakis's leadership has sparked debates within the party, particularly regarding his capitalist background and open support for LGBT rights. The election reflects a broader need for renewal within the Greek left, as other left-wing parties like PASOK and the Greek Communist Party also face challenges. Kasselakis aims to reform the party and challenge the ruling New Democracy (YDP) government, despite criticisms about his political inexperience and controversial statements on issues like Cyprus.

Greek MP Konstantinos Barbarousis from the far-right Golden Dawn party faces an arrest warrant for treason after calling for a military coup during a parliamentary session. The Greek Defense Minister Panos Kammenos filed a complaint, leading to the prosecutor's decision. Barbarousis was expelled from his party and went into hiding. The political turmoil is further fueled by a preliminary agreement between Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras and Macedonian Prime Minister Zoran Zaev to resolve the long-standing name dispute, prompting a no-confidence motion from the main opposition New Democracy Party.

Two Italian graffiti artists, including Jorit Agoch and Agostino Chirwin, were deported by Israel for painting a mural of Ahed Temimi on the Separation Wall in Bethlehem. Ahed Temimi, known for her resistance against Israeli soldiers, was recently released from HaSharon Prison after serving an eight-month sentence. The artists' visas were canceled, and they were asked to leave the country. Temimi had previously received the Hanzala Courage Award in Istanbul for her defiance against Israeli soldiers.

The article discusses the escalating military buildup between Turkey and Greece, highlighting the extensive acquisition of weapons by both nations and the media's role in exacerbating tensions. It criticizes the focus on military strength over peaceful dialogue and economic well-being, referencing historical and contemporary figures to advocate for peace. The author reflects on past anti-war sentiments and the current lack of such movements, emphasizing the detrimental impact of defense spending on economic stability and public welfare.

In the recent Greek elections, the New Democracy Party (NDP) led by Kyriakos Mitsotakis won with 40.5% of the vote, despite a low voter turnout of 52.8%. The real winner, according to some, was the 47% of voters who abstained. The elections also saw the entry of three far-right parties into parliament, including SPARTIATES, NIKI, and Helen Solution. SYRIZA, led by Alexis Tsipras, suffered a significant defeat, securing only 17.8% of the vote. The results highlight a shift in the political landscape, with far-right parties gaining ground and traditional left-wing parties losing influence.

As Turkey anticipates its presidential runoff on May 28, Greece is preparing for its general elections on May 21. Polls suggest no single party will secure the 46% needed to form a government alone. The ruling New Democracy Party (NDP) leads with 34.4%, followed by the main opposition SYRIZA at 27.9%, and PASOK at around 9-10%. Coalition talks are complicated by PASOK's condition that neither NDP's Kyriakos Mitsotakis nor SYRIZA's Alexis Tsipras serve as Prime Minister. If no coalition is formed, elections may be repeated in early July. The election features six party leaders answering tough questions on live TV and engaging directly with voters. Key campaign issues include economic policies, surveillance scandals, and the aftermath of a deadly train crash.

In the lead-up to Greece's general elections on May 21, opposition leader Alexis Tsipras of the Radical Left SYRIZA party has promised marriage and adoption rights for homosexuals, despite potential backlash from the Church and conservatives. This promise is supported by Yanis Varoufakis's MERA25 party. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis of the conservative New Democracy Party aims to increase votes by promising pension and minimum wage hikes and the introduction of private universities. The participation of the far-right 'Hellenes' party in the elections remains controversial due to its links to the banned 'Golden Dawn' party. Additionally, Greek-Turkish relations are highlighted by a joint visit to earthquake-hit Hatay by Greek Defense Minister Nikos Panagiotopoulos and Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar, signaling a potential new era of cooperation.

The author recounts a peaceful week spent on the Greek island of Kythnos, highlighting the island's natural beauty and rising costs due to the pandemic. The article touches on Greek-Turkish relations, mentioning statements by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. It also discusses the economic impact of the Russia-Ukraine war on travel costs and the ongoing concerns about inflation in both countries. The author advises readers to enjoy their holidays without worrying about missing significant news developments.

Greece experienced its worst train disaster in history, leading to a three-day national mourning period. Over 57 passengers, mostly university students, died, with an unknown number missing after a head-on collision between two trains near Larissa due to a switch error. The Greek Railway Union suggested that a GPS system, purchased in 2003 but never activated, could have prevented the accident. The incident has led to the resignation of the Transport Minister, Kostas Achileas Karamanlis, and executives from TRENOSE and HELLENIC TRAIN. Prime Minister Kiryakos Miçotakis announced plans to overhaul the railways. Protests erupted in Athens and Thessaloniki, with clashes between demonstrators and police. The political implications are being discussed, with questions about the impact on upcoming elections and the government's approval ratings. Opposition parties SYRIZA and the Greek Communist Party have made statements, with SYRIZA withholding criticism during the mourning period and the Communist Party calling the incident a crime. The train disaster's timing, following fatal earthquakes in Turkey, has also drawn comparisons to past events and led to messages of condolence and solidarity between Turkish and Greek leaders.

In Greece, two prominent political figures are stepping away from politics ahead of the elections. Kostas Karamanlis, a former Prime Minister and member of the ruling conservative New Democracy Party since 1989, has decided not to run in the upcoming elections, though he has not specified his reasons. Pavlos Polakis, known as the 'bad boy' of the radical left SYRIZA party and a former Deputy Health Minister, has been removed from the party's candidate list and referred to the disciplinary board after his controversial actions and statements, including his recent social media posts targeting journalists, judges, and bankers.

The article discusses the controversy surrounding the decision to hold the Fenerbahçe-Galatasaray Super Cup match in Riyadh, criticizing the Turkish Football Federation (TFF) and the clubs for agreeing to it. It highlights the logistical and cultural issues that led to the match's cancellation and the public's frustration. Additionally, it covers the shock in Greece over Fatih Terim's appointment as Panathinaikos' coach, the backlash against the club's owner Yanis Alafouzos for firing Ivan Jovanovic, and the mixed reactions from fans and media.

Turkish-Greek relations have historically been fraught with disputes, often requiring intervention from external parties to prevent escalation. Notable exceptions include the friendship pact between Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and Eleftherios Venizelos. Recent tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean were de-escalated by Angela Merkel. The current crisis lacks strong leaders like Bill Clinton or Angela Merkel to mediate. Alexis Tsipras has called for restraint, contrasting with the aggressive rhetoric from Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. With elections approaching in Turkey, Greece, and Cyprus, the outcome may influence the future of these relations.

The article discusses the ongoing territorial disputes between Turkey and Greece in the Aegean Sea, focusing on the arming of Greek islands and the legal controversies surrounding airspace and territorial waters. Turkey accuses Greece of violating international treaties by militarizing the islands and extending airspace beyond territorial waters. Greece defends its actions citing various international agreements and the need for national defense. The issue of 'grey areas' or islands with unclear ownership is also highlighted, with both countries presenting conflicting legal interpretations. The article underscores the complexity of resolving these disputes through international legal mechanisms.

Large-scale demonstrations were held in Athens and Thessaloniki to support thousands of refugees facing violent reactions from Greek border guards at the Turkey-Greece border. Protesters demanded the opening of borders for refugees and criticized both Greek and Turkish governments for using refugees as political tools. The protests called for an end to racist and discriminatory actions against refugees and urged the public to protect and support those stranded at the border and on Greek islands.

Following Turkey's announcement of opening its borders to Europe, migrants gathered at the Greek border only to find it closed. Greek border guards used megaphones to inform migrants that they were misled and the borders were closed. The situation escalated with Greek forces using tear gas to disperse the crowd. The article highlights the broader implications of the migration crisis, including the involvement of the European Union and the defensive measures taken by Greece and Bulgaria.

The maritime jurisdiction agreement signed between Turkey and Libya has raised concerns about escalating tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean. The agreement could fuel existing continental shelf disputes between Turkey and Greece and impact the EastMed project, which aims to transport natural gas from the Eastern Mediterranean to European countries. Greece has formed alliances with Cyprus, Israel, and Egypt, seemingly ignoring Turkey's presence in the Mediterranean, while Turkey has responded by signing the agreement with Libya's legitimate Sarraj government. The legality of Turkey's move under international law is debated, and there are reservations from Italy, France, the United States, and Russia. Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias has launched a campaign to invalidate the agreement, visiting countries including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Jordan, Cyprus, and General Khalifa Haftar in Benghazi. The planned EastMed pipeline, which would bypass Turkey, may now intersect with the maritime zones Turkey has delineated with Libya, potentially leading to new points of friction. The situation also reignites longstanding disputes over maritime boundaries and exclusive economic zones, particularly around the Greek island of Crete. The possibility of naval confrontations and the fear of war are growing concerns, with some suggesting that the International Court of Justice in The Hague may eventually need to be involved. An equitable solution to the Cyprus issue is believed to potentially resolve Eastern Mediterranean disputes automatically.

Greece's new Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, following tradition, made his first official visit to Cyprus where he met with Cypriot President Nikos Anastasiadis. Mitsotakis expressed a cautious optimism about the upcoming talks between Anastasiadis and Northern Cyprus leader Mustafa Akıncı scheduled for August 9, emphasizing the importance of resolving the Cyprus issue without outdated guarantees and the presence of occupying forces. He criticized Turkey's presence on the island and its drilling activities in the Eastern Mediterranean as violations of Cyprus's sovereign rights. Anastasiadis echoed Mitsotakis's views on Turkey's drilling and indicated a joint response with the EU. He also stressed the need for equal rights between communities in Cyprus and expressed hope for agreement in his talks with Akıncı.

Conservative New Democracy Party leader and Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis outlined his government's program in the Greek parliament, emphasizing steps in economy, social issues, education, and development. He briefly touched on Greek-Turkish relations, expressing a desire to take bold steps forward with President Erdogan, based on international law and friendly relations. Mitsotakis also announced plans for tax reductions, attracting foreign investors, educational reforms, restoration of historic buildings in Athens and Thessaloniki, and legal changes to revoke privileges for prisoners serving life sentences. The program will be presented for a vote in the Greek Parliament on Monday midnight.

Kiryakos Mitsotakis, leader of the New Democracy Party, became the Prime Minister of Greece following the party's victory in the recent elections, taking over from SYRIZA leader Alexis Tsipras. Mitsotakis, who was sworn in during a religious ceremony, plans to call President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan as one of his first actions to foster a climate of trust between Greece and Turkey and to ease tensions in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean. The New Democracy Party is one of the few European conservative parties that support Turkey's EU membership, a stance Mitsotakis has consistently endorsed. Mitsotakis, born in 1968, is married with three children and is the son of former Prime Minister Konstantinos Mitsotakis. His sister, Dora Bakoyannis, is also a former Foreign Minister. During the rule of the Colonels' Junta in Greece, their father was helped by then Foreign Minister İhsan Sabri Çağlayangil to escape to Paris via Turkey.

The conservative New Democracy Party (YDP) won the early general elections in Greece with 39.8% of the vote, securing 158 seats in the 300-seat parliament, allowing them to form a government independently. YDP leader Kiryakos Miçotakis will take over as Prime Minister from SYRIZA leader Aleksis Çipras, whose party received 31.6% of the vote and 86 seats. The far-right Golden Dawn Party failed to pass the 3% election threshold. Other parties that passed the threshold include the Movement for Change, the Communist Party of Greece, Greek Solution, and MERA25. Miçotakis aims to improve living conditions, increase employment, and enhance security. Çipras acknowledged the democratic process and emphasized that SYRIZA will remain a strong opposition.

Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras responded to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's comments targeting him, asserting that he speaks on behalf of international law and the European Union, and that Greece is not alone but a pillar of stability and peace in the region. Tsipras emphasized Greece and Cyprus's determination to protect their sovereignty rights within the framework of international law. He warned that any violation of these rights would have significant costs and damage Turkey's relations with the EU and regional cooperation opportunities. The tension between Turkey and Cyprus has escalated since the discovery of rich hydrocarbon deposits in the Eastern Mediterranean in 2010 and the involvement of major international energy companies like Noble, Exxon Mobil, ENI, and Total.

Drilling activities in the Eastern Mediterranean have reignited tensions between Turkey and Greece. Greece's declaration of Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) and cooperation with Cyprus, Israel, and Egypt has isolated Turkey in the region. ExxonMobil's drilling in the area has shown promising results, with significant natural gas reserves estimated by the US Geological Survey. Turkey, feeling excluded, has initiated its own hydrocarbon research with two vessels. Turkish officials assert their rights in the region and the protection of Turkish Cypriots' interests. The potential for conflict over maritime boundaries remains high. Greece's new Foreign Minister Yorgos Katrougalos suggests dialogue for resolving disputes. The EastMed project, supported by the US and EU, plans to transport gas from the Eastern Mediterranean to Europe, but its feasibility is debated. The quantity and commercial value of the natural gas could either offer a chance for resolution or lead to greater conflict.

Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras is set to visit Turkey on February 5-6, marking his third visit since taking office in 2015. He will be received by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan at the Presidential Palace in Ankara and will then travel to Istanbul to meet with Patriarch Bartholomeos and visit the Halki seminary, closed since 1972, becoming the first Greek Prime Minister to do so. The visit is considered highly significant in Athens, with expectations to address longstanding issues such as Aegean disputes, airspace violations, the Cyprus problem, and recent tensions over drilling activities in the Eastern Mediterranean. The Greek government hopes for progress, especially on the Cyprus issue, following the resignation of the nationalist Defense Minister Panos Kammenos, which may allow Tsipras more flexibility in Turkish-Greek relations and the Cyprus problem. The visit aims to reduce tensions and maintain dialogue between the two countries.

Following the dissolution of the coalition government in Greece, attention turns to the confidence vote for Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras' radical left SYRIZA government. Tsipras aims to secure at least 151 votes in the 300-seat Parliament to continue as a minority government until the general elections in October. He believes he can gain support from some members of the right-wing Independent Greeks (ANEL) party, independent MPs, and the moderate left POTAMI party. If he fails, early general elections will be necessary. Panos Kammenos, who left the government over the Macedonia naming dispute, expelled two ANEL members for supporting Tsipras. The confidence vote's outcome will also impact the upcoming parliamentary vote on renaming Macedonia to 'North Macedonia'.

On New Year's Eve, Thessaloniki, a city often compared to Izmir, was bustling with Turkish tourists who felt at home due to the city's warm atmosphere and cultural familiarity. The city's cosmopolitan nature was evident with people speaking various languages, including Turkish, Serbian, Romanian, Hebrew, Bulgarian, and Greek. Thessaloniki's Mayor Yannis Boutaris was credited for reviving the city's natural cultural richness and diversity through outreach to Turkey, neighboring Balkan countries, and Israel. Despite Boutaris announcing he would not run in the upcoming May elections, the city's festive spirit and welcoming attitude towards Turkish visitors highlighted a successful cultural exchange.

Former Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Greece, Yorgos Papandreu, spoke to SABAH ahead of his visit to Turkey from October 26-28, addressing Europe's pressing immigration issue. He emphasized that the crisis, which became apparent with Syria, has evolved into a global problem requiring collective action and discussion on necessary measures.

Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras announced a new economic package including tax reductions and salary increases. Speaking at the opening of the 83rd Thessaloniki International Fair, Tsipras outlined his government's economic vision post-bailout, emphasizing the correctness of accepting the bailout in August 2015. He revealed plans to revise collective agreements and raise the minimum wage in 2019, along with reducing various taxes and social security payments.

The death toll from the forest fires near Athens, Greece, continues to rise, with 81 confirmed deaths, including those who drowned while fleeing to the sea. The Rafina region, one of the devastated areas, is expected to have a death toll exceeding 100, according to Mayor Evangelos Bournous. There are nearly 200 injured, including 23 children, with 10 in critical condition. Over 100 people, including foreign tourists, are missing. Eyewitness accounts describe the rapid and overwhelming nature of the fires, with many unable to escape the flames. Criticism has been directed at the Greek government for inadequate fire prevention measures and failure to renew firefighting resources, drawing parallels to past tragedies in Greece where wildfires have caused significant loss of life and property.

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's official visit to Greece on December 7-8 is highly valued, marking the first visit by a Turkish President to Athens in 65 years and anticipated to be a turning point for bilateral relations. The visit is expected to address Turkish-Greek disputes through dialogue, enhance economic cooperation with transportation projects, and demonstrate Turkey's continued Western engagement to the EU and the USA despite fluctuations in Turkey-EU relations.

Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Kocyas, a member of the SYRIZA government, will be visiting Istanbul to meet with Patriarch Bartholomew I and then proceed to meet with Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu. Kocyas aims to reaffirm intentions regarding Confidence Building Measures between Greece and Turkey, discuss the progress of exploratory talks, and further enhance the already flourishing economic relations. He also anticipates discussing regional stability and security, acknowledging both shared and differing views with Turkey. Kocyas expresses hope for resolving Aegean disputes and looks forward to increasing cooperation, including the possibility of reciprocal visits by Greek and Turkish prime ministers.

Alexis Tsipras, Greece's youngest and most left-leaning Prime Minister since 1876, discusses the continuation of the friendship and cooperation between the Greek and Turkish people, based on common values. Despite the challenges, including airspace violations and the casus belli issue, Tsipras emphasizes the importance of dialogue and diplomacy. He outlines his government's priorities, including renegotiating Greece's debt within the EU, reviewing privatization contracts for legality and profitability, and fostering investments that benefit the public. Tsipras also supports a fair and sustainable solution to the Cyprus issue, advocating for a bi-communal, bi-zonal federation. His victory in Greece has sent messages of optimism and hope across Europe.

Greece's plan to build a security wall along the Turkish border to curb illegal immigration has sparked significant controversy. The proposed barrier, intended to cover 12.5 kilometers of the 80-kilometer border, has been met with opposition from political parties, civil society, and the European Commission, which criticizes it as a short-term solution. Journalist Stelyo Berberakis highlights the ineffectiveness of such barriers, citing similar measures at the U.S.-Mexico border, and suggests that the wall could inadvertently aid human traffickers by increasing their fees. Berberakis also notes that a more effective solution might involve repatriation agreements with the migrants' countries of origin, a topic previously discussed between Greek and Turkish leaders.