Speaking on SKAI 100.3 on Friday, 6 March 2026, PASOK leader Nikos Androulakis stressed the need for comprehensive European support for Cyprus amid escalating tensions in the Middle East and the crisis in Iran. He clarified that solidarity with Nicosia does not equate to participation in war.
European Backing for Cyprus
Androulakis emphasized that the Republic of Cyprus — as an EU member state bordering a conflict zone — must be backed by all European powers. He underscored that this support concerns the entire island, not only its Greek Cypriot community. He recalled that Cyprus’s accession to the EU — achieved despite the unresolved Cyprus dispute — stands as a legacy of PASOK and former Prime Minister Costas Simitis.
Criticism of US–Israeli Strike on Iran
The opposition leader also voiced strong opposition to the recent US–Israeli military action against Iran. While he condemned Iran’s theocratic regime, its human rights abuses, and its destabilizing role in the region, he warned that the critical question is what comes after the war — and its consequences for Greece, Cyprus, Europe, and, above all, the Iranian people.
“We all condemn Iran’s theocratic regime, its violations of human rights, and its games of instability across the broader region. But here, political realism also applies. What will be the end result of waging war on such a large country? What will it mean for Greece — a neighbouring state — for Cyprus, for Europe, which has already suffered significant humanitarian and economic repercussions, and, most importantly, for the Iranian people?” he said, adding that the US and Israel are acting unilaterally.
Upholding International Law
Androulakis placed particular emphasis on respect for international law and the central role of the United Nations, stressing that the world cannot descend into a rule-free order. He noted that the Party of European Socialists holds a clear position in favour of upholding international legitimacy — rejecting unilateral enforcement logic and arbitrary use of power.
Critique of Greek Government’s Pro-Israel Stance
Turning his focus to the Greek government, Androulakis criticized Athens’ growing alignment with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over recent years. He described the Prime Minister’s ‘absolute and vertical’ identification with Netanyahu as mistaken — particularly on issues previously condemned by the EU itself, where Greece lagged behind or offered only half-hearted statements.
He noted that Greece’s strategic partnership with Israel — like its ties with the Arab world — was originally forged under PASOK-led governments. However, he stressed that such cooperation has limits: international law and Greece’s national interest.
According to Androulakis, the current Israeli leadership has acted destabilisingly in several instances.