Famellos said that Greece should have acted in favour of de-escalation and regional stability, particularly given its role as a member of the European Union and a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council.

‘We are witnessing continuous concessions within the framework of the policy of the “given ally”, with Mr Mitsotakis acting as a tail for Trump and Netanyahu,’ he said.

Call to condemn the military intervention

The SYRIZA leader argued that the government should condemn the military intervention against Iran and make clear that Greece will not participate in the conflict or allow the use of its military bases for such operations.

He also called on the government to ensure the protection and safe return of Greek citizens who are currently in areas affected by the conflict.

Famellos referred to Spain as an example, noting that the Spanish government had taken a similar position regarding the use of its territory in military operations.

Demand for institutional consultation

Famellos also renewed his call for the convening of a Council of Political Leaders in order to establish a national position on the crisis.

He criticised the government for discussing the issue in the context of a parliamentary debate on a separate bill concerning postal voting for Greek citizens abroad.

‘For once, rise to the occasion and do what the national interest dictates,’ he said, adding that the issue should be addressed through formal political consultation rather than treated as a secondary matter.

SYRIZA proposals for regional diplomacy

Famellos also outlined a series of proposals which he said could form the basis of a more active Greek foreign policy.

Among them were a ban on arms exports to countries involved in regional conflicts, renewed international negotiations under the United Nations for a resolution to the Palestinian issue based on the 1967 borders, and initiatives to promote reconstruction and democratic development in Syria.

He also called for efforts to establish the Middle East as a zone free of nuclear weapons and weapons of mass destruction, the resumption of negotiations on the Cyprus issue aimed at a bizonal, bicommunal federation, and initiatives to promote peace and cooperation across the Mediterranean region.

According to Famellos, these proposals demonstrate what he described as a ‘progressive plan for peace and security’ in the Middle East and the eastern Mediterranean.

He concluded by accusing the government of failing to take the diplomatic initiatives required by the current crisis.

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