[Dimitris Sarelas/Intime News]
An anti-Turkish chant during Greece’s Independence Day parade on Tuesday has sparked political friction within the ruling New Democracy party, exposing a divide between the more conservative and the moderates.
Cadets from the Hellenic Navy Petty Officers School (SMYN) were recorded chanting an anti-Turkish slogan during the March 25 parade, drawing mixed reactions. While some party members defended the cadets, others, including Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis, expressed concern over escalating tensions with Turkey.
Thanos Plevris, a New Democracy lawmaker, was among the first to back the cadets, saying he did not have a problem with it. Other officials, including Minister of Development Adonis Georgiadis, urged against reprimanding them, calling them “our children” and praising their patriotism. This sentiment resonates with the party’s conservative base.
However, Gerapetritis reportedly told associates he was displeased with the situation and its handling. As foreign minister, he was the first to receive complaints from Ankara, which described the chant as provocative. The Turkish Ministry of Defense condemned the incident, stating, “The military has written and unwritten rules, and what happened in Greece should not happen.”
The Greek government has ordered an internal investigation, which is expected to conclude soon. Military sources suggest the matter could be resolved with a transfer, possibly of the school’s commanding officer.
While the administration hopes to contain the controversy, the incident highlights ongoing tensions within New Democracy and the delicate balancing act in Greek-Turkish relations.
Government sources downplayed any long-term diplomatic fallout, but the episode underscores how domestic politics can influence international affairs.