Stories from Athens · Greece

Three Turkish nationals were arrested in the Attica region as part of an operation targeting Turkish criminal networks operating in Greece. The individuals face allegations of violating drug and immigration laws. Authorities stated that the suspects face judicial deportation. The individuals face charges related to violations of drug and foreign national regulations. Police seized more than 15 kilos of cannabis and cocaine during the operation. The arrests were reported by Real FM 97.8 Athens.

The Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs is coordinating actions regarding the safe disembarkation of individuals from the intercepted aid flotilla. Greek authorities are in consultation with Israeli authorities to manage the safe return of passengers to their respective countries. The Ministry has offered to receive the passengers on Greek soil to facilitate their safe transit. The Ministry has requested that Israel withdraw its vessels from the area. A delegation from the Ministry of Migration has been sent to the arrival point to coordinate actions with foreign consular services and other authorities. The ministry stated that Greece is acting in accordance with domestic law to facilitate the reception of crews and their repatriation to their respective countries.

Oil markets are preparing for a new round of military escalation in the Middle East. Goldman Sachs warned that prices could reach 2008 levels of $130 per barrel if the Strait of Hormuz faces prolonged closure or Iranian attacks. This price increase occurred despite the International Energy Agency's March 11 promise to release 400 million barrels from emergency reserves. Thirty-two member states of the organization hold reserves exceeding 1 billion barrels. Oil prices at approximately $108 per barrel could lead to global inflation and negatively impact economic growth. Russia has expressed satisfaction with rising energy resource prices. Demand for Russian oil currently significantly exceeds its supply, which has impacted its ability to supply international markets since the start of the war in Azoliv. The source stated that Moscow cannot occupy Iran's share in Asia or dictate prices.

The Greek Parliament has moved toward a preliminary investigation regarding two government members. The proposal specifically names the former Minister of Rural Development and Food, Mr. Livanos. The investigation follows a recent parliamentary motion. Among the 19 members of the national resistance organization were former PASOK Minister Varivakis and Stathis Giotas. The death sentences were not carried out following international community protests and domestic demonstrations.

Goldman Sachs analyst Dan Strauven revised Brent crude oil estimates to $90 per barrel for the next 3-4 months. The price surge comes amid preparations for potential military escalations in the US-Israel conflict. Prices reached $126 per barrel on Thursday morning.

Protests are occurring in at least 46 cities in support of the 'Flotilla Over Libera'. Activist Antonella Bundu, aboard the ship Tin Chin, reported seeing a small boat approaching the vessel during the night.

More than 175 activists on the Flotilla near Gaza are scheduled to disembark in Greece and be transferred to Greek vessels, according to foreign affairs ministers. The Portuguese government confirmed that three Portuguese citizens are currently on board the Flotilla.

Detainees are expected to disembark on the coast of Greece within a few hours. About 20 vessels were reportedly boarded and crews captured, while others managed to escape. Two vessels were reached in high seas near Crete.

The Open Arms vessel conducted a search and rescue operation to assist boats attempting to reach Greek territorial waters. Most individuals on the boats were successfully recovered during the operation. The boats were described as being in poor condition.

Reporters Without Borders has released its international press freedom ranking for 2026. Despite the improvement, the profession of journalism remains highly uncertain in the region. This improvement occurs despite the ongoing conflict in the country. The source noted that the professional situation for journalists in Ukraine has seen developments similar to those in the Fiji Islands and Botswana. Reporter Without Borders released the 2026 press freedom rankings, which show an improvement for Ukraine. Russia remains ranked at number one in the index. Journalists reported an increase in hate and threats, noting that some now require security firms for protection during demonstrations. Russia ranked 172nd out of 180 countries in the 2026 press freedom rankings, trailing Norway by 171 places. Over half of the countries surveyed are vulnerable to political and economic influences.