Greece, set to join the United Nations Security Council for the 2025-2026 term, is positioning itself as a potential mediator in the ongoing Middle East conflict. This marks Greece's fifth stint on the council, having previously served in 1952-1953, 1963-1964, 2005-2006, and now in 2025-2026. The country's diplomatic efforts draw on its longstanding relationships with both Israel and Arab nations, a connection that dates back to ancient times and has been reinforced through geographical proximity and trade relations.
George Gerapetritis, Greece's Foreign Minister, expressed concern over the lack of effective pressure on Israel to end the conflict in Gaza. In an interview on September 23, 2024, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly's annual meeting in New York City, Gerapetritis stated, "It seems that there is no effective pressure upon Israel. We are friends of Israel, and we're strategic partners of Israel, and we're trying to be as open and sincere with them."
Greece, a member of the European Union since 1981, has maintained a balanced stance on the conflict. While condemning the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas, it has also called for an end to Israel's military operations in Gaza. This position aligns with Greece's historical role as an advocate for peaceful conflict resolution in international forums.
The Greek Foreign Minister highlighted the potential for escalation at the Israel-Lebanon border, referring to it as a "minefield" that the international community might struggle to manage. This concern is particularly significant given the UN's long-standing involvement in Lebanon, with peacekeeping efforts dating back to 1978. The border area, known as the Blue Line, was established by the UN in 2000 and remains a point of tension.
Gerapetritis emphasized the need for coordinated efforts between Arab and European nations to influence the situation. He stated, "We have not prevented the spillover, and the more dispersed the war becomes, the more the situation becomes more complicated to be solved."
In a proactive move, Greece has been spearheading an initiative since June 2024 to bring children affected by the war in Gaza to European Union countries for temporary care. This effort showcases Greece's commitment to humanitarian causes and its ability to leverage its EU membership for regional benefit. Gerapetritis mentioned that Greece alone could potentially accommodate about 500 children as part of this initiative.
Greece's role as a potential peace broker is bolstered by its unique position as a member of the EU and its strong ties to the Middle East. The country's economy, heavily reliant on tourism from both Israeli and Arab visitors, provides an additional incentive for Greece to promote stability in the region.
As Greece prepares to take its seat on the UN Security Council, its diplomatic efforts in the Middle East will be closely watched. With its historical experience in UN peacekeeping missions and its strategic geographical position, Greece is poised to play a significant role in addressing one of the most pressing international security challenges of our time.