Adonis and Israel: a political and geopolitical statement on the international stage

In a deeply symbolic and geopolitically charged statement, Greek Health Minister Adonis Georgiadis announced that he is removing from his office the framed photo of hostages from Hamas’ terrorist attack on October 7, 2023, in Israel, following the return of the last hostage’s remains to Israel — marking the fulfillment of a symbolic duty he had undertaken.

This act coincides with International Holocaust Remembrance Day (January 27), which the European Union and global institutions observe to honor the memory of millions of victims of the Nazi regime, reinforcing the fight against hatred and historical distortion.

Georgiadis’ statement goes beyond a personal gesture; it is a geopolitical signal blending symbolism, national solidarity, and international strategy:

• Symbol of humanity: Keeping the framed photo until all hostages returned emphasized the value of human life and the unity of families torn apart by violence.
• Support for democratic allies: The gesture shows clear backing for democratic institutions and Israel’s efforts to protect its citizens.
• International credibility and security: At a time when Greece is consolidating its position as a strategic Middle Eastern partner, such statements strengthen the bilateral alliance with Israel and position Athens as a reliable actor on the global stage.

The Greek government has consistently taken a firm stance against antisemitism, with Georgiadis recently stating publicly that “antisemitism has no place in Greece and must be confronted decisively,” emphasizing historical ties with Israel and the defense of universal democratic values.

Geopolitically, this approach comes amid ongoing international efforts to stabilize the Middle East and manage the consequences of the Gaza conflict. While many countries call for immediate ceasefires and protection of civilians, strategic partnerships between European states and Israel continue to influence regional balances.

The coincidence with Holocaust Remembrance Day, described by EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen as a “moral legacy and warning for humanity,” amplifies the message: past atrocities must never be forgotten, especially when protecting innocents from terrorist attacks is at stake.

 Georgiadis’ declaration is far more than a personal or symbolic act. It is a performance of political and geopolitical power, aligned with Greek and European values of democracy, human dignity, and international cooperation against terrorism and hatred — messages that reinforce Greece’s standing on a turbulent global stage.

Ποτέ ξανά! Είμαστε με το ⁦@IsraelinGreece⁩ ⁦@Israel⁩ τιμούμε την Διεθνή Ημέρα για το Ολοκαύτωμα pic.twitter.com/toYnbQQqE1

— Άδωνις Γεωργιάδης (@AdonisGeorgiadi) January 27, 2026

Source: pagenews.gr