Former Greek Prime Minister and former New Democracy party leader Antonis Samaras has praised Israel’s recent recognition of the Armenian genocide as a “courageous step” and “fulfillment of a historical duty.” In a statement, Samaras welcomed Tel Aviv’s acknowledgment of the mass killings of Armenians during the final years of the Ottoman Empire.
A Call to Extend Recognition
Samaras urged the Greek government to seize the diplomatic momentum and formally convey Greece’s strong support to Israel for recognizing not only the Armenian genocide—but also the genocides suffered by Greeks from Pontus, Thrace, and Asia Minor under Ottoman rule.
“Every free person now expects the next step: Israel’s recognition of the genocide against the Greeks of Pontus, Thrace, and Asia Minor,” he said. He framed such a move as strategically significant in today’s regional context—arguing it would serve as a “decisive bulwark” against what he described as President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s neo-Ottoman expansionist agenda.
Geopolitical Implications
According to Samaras, Ankara’s revisionist policies target Greece, Cyprus, Israel, and the Kurdish people. Recognizing the Greek genocides, he contends, would directly counter those ambitions and reinforce shared democratic values among regional allies.
Samaras’ intervention carries added political weight amid widespread speculation about his future plans—including reports that he is considering launching a new political party. His public statements are currently drawing close attention from analysts and media alike.