Seven Arrested in Greece for Suspected Arson Attacks on Jewish Buildings amid Rise of Anti-Semitism in Europe

The Greek police announced today that in the past year, seven people have been arrested for setting fire to an Israeli-owned hotel and a synagogue in the center of Athens, as reported by Reuters. Among those arrested were a 25-year-old Greek woman, two Iranians aged 46 and 36, and a 44-year-old Afghan accomplice. They were charged with arson and causing damage to foreign-owned property in a racially motivated attack that took place on May 15.

Another incident occurred on June 18, involving a 44-year-old Greek man and a 26-year-old Afghan man who threw a flammable substance at the entrance of a synagogue in Athens while riding a motorcycle. This action resulted in a fire, and a 30-year-old Iranian was arrested as an accomplice. They were charged with arson, possession of a weapon, and robbery.

In March of the previous year, the Greek police arrested two men suspected of being involved in a group planning an arson attack or an assault on an Israeli restaurant and a synagogue in Athens. The Israeli Mossad commended the Greek police for their response to these arrests and accused Iran of orchestrating the operations.