Trade unions in Greece are actively protesting the proposed allocation of space for the cruise ship Crown Iris, which is reportedly linked to the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). The World Federation of Trade Unions (WFTU), based in Athens, is urging Greek authorities to rescind the approval for the ship’s docking at the Public Power Corporation (PPC) pier in Keratsini, Piraeus, where extensive repair and maintenance work is planned.
Operated by the Israeli cruise line Mano Maritime, Crown Iris has been associated with the IDF amid the ongoing Gaza conflict and the recent Israel-Iran tensions. The ship has been involved in operations to rescue stranded Israelis, notably transporting over a thousand foreign visitors from Israel to Cyprus and subsequently bringing back thousands of Israeli citizens.
Launched in 1992, Crown Iris has a storied history, having undergone multiple ownership changes and renovations, including a significant refit in 2019 at Chalkis Shipyards. It operates cruises from Israeli ports to various Mediterranean destinations, making it a familiar presence in Greek shipyards. However, the ship’s return for repairs has sparked backlash due to Israel’s controversial actions in Gaza, prompting WFTU and the Workers Militant Front (PAME) to condemn the Piraeus Port Authority for its decision.
In response, WFTU has demanded the immediate revocation of the ship’s docking approval, advocating for the space to be allocated to commercial vessels needing repairs. They have also called on local unions to remain vigilant and refrain from participating in any activities that would assist Crown Iris in accessing the repair docks, emphasizing their opposition to any maintenance work on the ship in Greece.
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