Overview

• Israeli Ambassador Noam Katz said on August 3 that antisemitic graffiti in Athens was not being cleaned up fast enough, leaving Israeli tourists feeling uncomfortable.
• Mayor Haris Doukas defended Athens’ record on opposing violence and racism, emphasizing that the city supports free expression and respects its visitors.
• Doukas accused Israel of committing an “unprecedented genocide” in Gaza and criticized the ambassador’s focus on graffiti he said was “clearly wiped off.”
• The Central Board of Jewish Communities in Greece urged authorities to send a zero-tolerance message against antisemitism and to protect both Jewish residents and visitors.
• City officials maintain that antisemitic graffiti is being removed promptly and say they balance public safety with free speech against a backdrop of pro-Palestinian demonstrations and rising Israeli tourism and investment.