Greek port authorities imposed a 500-metre maritime security zone around the Israeli-operated cruise ship Crown Iris during its scheduled call at Argostoli, Kefalonia, on 14 October.
The restrictions, published by Kefalonia Focus on 13 October, banned all motorised and non-motorised vessels from approaching within 500 metres of the ship’s berth between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. Ferries on the regular Argostoli–Lixouri service were exempt. Vehicle access along part of the port waterfront was also restricted from 11 p.m. on 13 October until 8 p.m. the following day.
The orders were issued to maintain safety, security and public order during the ship’s visit. Authorities did not cite a specific threat or incident.
Crown Iris, operated by Israel’s Mano Maritime, has faced repeated pro-Palestinian protests at Greek ports. In July 2025 the vessel left Syros early without passengers disembarking after demonstrators blocked the port. Similar protests and police interventions occurred in Rhodes, Crete and Piraeus. Separate investigations in Crete and Cyprus have involved arrests linked to possible threats against Israeli interests, although none has been publicly connected to the Argostoli measures.
Bill Giannopoulos
Junior Editor
Bill Giannopoulos is a Junior Editor at Greek City Times, covering Greek and international news, sport, and history.