2024-04-17 21:34:35
Regarding the critical developments in the Middle East and to what extent it may affect our country, the Minister of National Defense Nikos Dendias was asked to answer, speaking on Wednesday morning (17/4) to SKAI.
“I can’t get into probabilities. What I wish for is a de-escalation. The firm position of all the countries that are friendly towards Israel and condemned Iran’s attack against it, they do not want this war to spread,” the minister emphasized and added: “When you are a few thousand miles from a war, you don’t expect anything good. There are already effects on the economy from the situation in the Red Sea as maritime transport has been disrupted. 60% does not pass through the Suez Canal, products are missing and prices are rising in Europe.”
Asked about the way Israel intercepted Iran’s missiles, Mr. Dendias said that within our planning there is the creation of an anti-aircraft interception system. “The country must be closed,” he noted characteristically.
In fact, the Minister of National Defense stated that Turkey has taken many steps in this direction. “We didn’t see it too early. The innovation system, with the exception of small businesses, didn’t appreciate the situation, so we have to make up for lost time, but at the same time take big steps to create the domes,” he said, adding that it’s not something that will be done immediately.
“There is a planned expenditure that is part of the 2030 agenda,” said Minister Nikos Dendias.
When asked if the military agreements signed by our country provide for support, he emphasized that there is no article that provides for assistance against an ally in the North Atlantic Alliance.
“Greece is not an aggressive power, what it plans is to defend the territory, but it must be able to shield itself. In anti-aircraft this is possible”, Mr. Dendias noted, among other things.
Regarding the marine parks, the Minister of National Defense emphasized that what Turkey did was not acceptable. In other words, in Antipaxos when I fish, I have to call the Turks if I can” and he added “if it is possible to ask Turkey’s permission to protect the environment of the Cyclades”.
In conclusion, Mr. Dendias said that Turkey must realize that Greece has specific rights in the Aegean arising from International Law. She likes them well, she doesn’t like them well.” Regarding the 12 miles, he said that there is a permanent position of sovereignty and Greece will exercise it when the Greek interest dictates it.
Source: Reporter.gr