“This decision does not help the ceasefire because equating a state defending itself with a terrorist organisation like Hamas is wrong,” Marinakis said. He also dismissed claims that his comments implied a lack of respect for international court decisions, adding, “There is no question of respecting or not respecting the Court’s rulings, especially for a state governed by the rule of law like Greece.”

Marinakis maintained that a balanced approach was necessary, emphasising the need to protect civilians on both sides of the Israel-Palestine conflict. “The numerous Palestinian casualties are equally valuable, but there are also deaths and hostages on the Israeli side,” he stated.

Accusations of “fascism of the minority”

Marinakis accused Androulakis of adopting rhetoric from the “far left” and criticised what he described as the “fascism of the minority.” He argued that some voices from the far left dehumanise victims by selectively mourning based on nationality or political alignment. “Fascism has two sides,” he said. “We do not weigh the dead. All lives have the same value, whether a woman is abused in a Muslim regime or in a developed state.”

Addressing economic policies

Shifting to economic issues, Marinakis criticised Androulakis’ VAT proposals as inconsistent, claiming, “Mr. Androulakis has offered two or three different versions since Saturday about what he would do with VAT.” He highlighted the government’s record of tax reductions across various sectors, including agricultural supplies, gyms, cinemas, and transportation.

“This government has reduced a total of 50 taxes in its first four years, with another nine in its first year of the second term,” Marinakis said, adding that these measures aim to ease the burden on citizens while avoiding mortgaging the country’s future.

Marinakis also reiterated the government’s commitment to improving wages, stating, “The only way to tackle inflation is to raise incomes. Our goal is an average salary of €1,500.”

Expanding surveillance infrastructure

Marinakis detailed plans to roll out 1,388 new surveillance cameras to monitor traffic violations, such as speeding and illegal lane use, by 2025. The system, already operational with 388 cameras in Attica, will feature automated processes for issuing and reviewing fines without human intervention.

“These cameras will provide 24-hour monitoring to ensure citizen safety and enforce traffic laws,” Marinakis said, adding that objections to fines will also be processed automatically.

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