The group “Initiative Against the DEFEA Exhibition” has criticised its timing and purpose, especially in light of Israel’s actions in Gaza. They have issued a call for protest outside the Ministry of National Defence on Wednesday 7 May at 7 p.m., stating:

“Not in our name! You’re either with the people, their needs, and peace – or with the merchants of war and those who commit genocide.”

This is the third edition of the DEFEA international defence and security exhibition, which, according to its official site, will showcase land, naval, aerospace, national and cyber security defence systems from leading Greek and international defence companies. The event is held under the auspices of the Ministry of National Defence and organised with support from SEKPY and ROTA SA.

A glance at the DEFEA website reveals a strong presence of Israeli firms – a fact the Greek government has consistently praised. However, this praise overlooks how these systems are used in practice: to enforce apartheid, carry out mass killings, and displace Palestinian communities.

Greece’s plans for a missile defence system

On 2 April, Defence Minister Nikos Dendias, one of the key organisers of DEFEA, spoke about Greece pursuing a missile defence strategy inspired by Israel’s Iron Dome.

“We propose a complete shift in defence thinking. We’re moving beyond the idea that the Aegean is defended solely by the navy – now, the whole territory will be protected by a more complex system,” he said.

This vision includes the creation of a multibillion-euro air defence shield dubbed “Achilles’ Shield,” based on the Israeli model.

Prior to the formal announcement of “Achilles’ Shield,” Greek state broadcaster ERT reported that the system would be developed in three phases, one of which involves selecting a partner country to collaborate on its creation – with Israel named as one of the possible candidates.

Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis has repeatedly referred to Greece’s strategic partnership with Israel, despite widespread condemnation of the country’s actions in Gaza. On 11 April, he stated:

“Our foreign policy is not just about our relationship with Turkey. Greece is building strategic ties with Israel, Egypt, and the Gulf states. With support from American giants like Exxon and Chevron, we’re exploring the possibility of natural gas deposits south of Crete, and we aim to be honest partners with all players in the Eastern Mediterranean. It’s in our interest to work towards a secure and prosperous region.”

Casualties mount in Gaza

According to Gaza’s Ministry of Health, Israel’s war on the territory has killed at least 52,567 Palestinians and injured more than 118,000. Meanwhile, Gaza’s Government Media Office has updated the death toll to over 61,700, stating that thousands more are still missing under the rubble and are presumed dead.

The protest against the DEFEA arms fair is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Wednesday 7 May, outside the Ministry of National Defence.

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