19.06.2025 13:51
In a period of escalating tension between Israel and Iran, while there is curiosity about whether the U.S. will intervene in the region, a striking claim has emerged from the Greek press. The newspaper Kathimerini reported that the U.S. has deployed Patriot missile defense systems to a base on the island of Crete. According to the newspaper, this move aims to protect American forces in the region from potential ballistic threats.
As the Israel-Iran war enters its seventh day, developments in the region have taken on a new dimension. Greece's latest move has led to comments that the country is effectively involved in the war.
"PATRIOTS WILL PROTECT THE USA"
Kathimerini newspaper reported that an undisclosed number of Patriot missile systems have been transferred to the Greek Navy and NATO base located in Souda Bay, Crete. The newspaper stated in its report, which did not disclose its source, that this aims to provide 'anti-ballistic protection' for US assets in the region.
"THEY WILL BE DEPLOYED AT THE BASE IN CRETE"
The newspaper's report indicated that before being sent to Turkey to participate in the large-scale 'Anatolian Eagle' exercise in July, a significant number of F-16 fighter jets were temporarily deployed to the base in Crete. Beyond the Patriot systems provided by the Hellenic Air Force, the Greek Armed Forces do not have any other ballistic counter-capacity.
EMERGENCY MEETING HELD
These systems are therefore used to protect "critical military infrastructure."
The Greek Ministry of Defense does not believe that Iran poses a direct threat to Greece, while the emergency meeting held on Wednesday by military and political leaders discussed how current defense capabilities could be mobilized if necessary.