In a recent interview with the Associated Press, Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis described the ongoing conflict in Gaza as a "nightmare," emphasizing the urgent need for a ceasefire and substantial humanitarian aid. He condemned Hamas' October 7, 2023, attack on Israel and expressed deep concern over the significant Palestinian civilian casualties.

Gerapetritis highlighted the erosion of democracy due to inequality, populism, and weakened international institutions. He addressed Europe's "political identity crisis," exacerbated by the Ukraine war and the challenges of EU decision-making due to the requirement of unanimous votes. He reaffirmed Greece's support for Ukraine's sovereignty and noted that sanctions on Russia have failed to force peace due to evasion tactics.

Regarding U.S. trade policies, Gerapetritis acknowledged growing ties between Greece and the U.S. but criticized protectionist tariffs, advocating for a balanced compromise. He reiterated Greece's support for a two-state solution in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the country's role as a neutral mediator in peace efforts.

Giorgos Gerapetritis, born on June 26, 1967, in Karpathos, Greece, has been serving as Greece's Minister for Foreign Affairs since June 27, 2023, under Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. Prior to this role, he held positions as Minister of State (2019–2023) and acting Minister of Infrastructure and Transport (March–May 2023). Gerapetritis is affiliated with the New Democracy party and has a robust academic background, including degrees from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, the University of Edinburgh, and a doctorate from the University of Oxford. He has been a professor of constitutional law at the University of Athens since 2003.

The high civilian death toll in Gaza underscores the urgent need for humanitarian aid and a ceasefire to prevent further loss of life and alleviate suffering. Gerapetritis's comments highlight concerns about the global erosion of democratic values due to rising inequality and populism, which could lead to increased political instability. The EU's decision-making challenges may hinder its ability to respond effectively to crises, potentially affecting its global influence and internal cohesion.

Greece's role as a mediator in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and its position in the U.N. Security Council reflect its strategic diplomatic engagements aimed at promoting peace and stability. The conflict in Gaza raises questions about adherence to international humanitarian law, particularly concerning the protection of civilians during armed conflicts. The partial effectiveness of sanctions on Russia highlights the complexities of enforcing economic penalties and the need for comprehensive strategies to address evasion tactics.

The region has experienced multiple conflicts over the years, but the current situation is marked by an unprecedented civilian death toll, raising concerns about the humanitarian crisis. The requirement for unanimous decisions has long been a point of contention within the EU, affecting its ability to respond swiftly to crises.

Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis's recent statements reflect Greece's proactive diplomatic stance in addressing global conflicts, advocating for democratic values, and emphasizing the need for humanitarian aid and political solutions to ongoing crises.