GRÈCE PERSPECTIVE

Greek media coverage reveals a strongly alarmist perspective that places Greece and Europe at the heart of a major geopolitical conflict. The particular emphasis on the attack against Cyprus transforms what could be seen as a regional conflict into an existential threat directly for the Hellenic and European space. This focus on Cyprus is not insignificant: it allows Greek media to legitimize European involvement in the conflict by presenting Iran as having already 'crossed the Rubicon' by attacking European territory. The dramatic tone ('miracle' for holy sites, 'very difficult night') amplifies the perception of an impending crisis.

The narrative framing adopts a clear Manichaean structure where the Israel-US axis represents the defense of Western civilization against Iranian threat. Netanyahu is portrayed as a visionary who anticipated this escalation ('I have been warning all the time'), while Trump embodies the firmness needed in response to aggression. This heroization contrasts with the systematic demonization of Iran, presented as an irrational actor simultaneously threatening global energy, religious sites, and regional stability. The reference to 'the three monotheistic religions' is particularly aimed at mobilizing the Greek Orthodox public opinion.

The silences in this coverage reveal structural biases. No historical context explains Iranian motivations, no alternative voices nuance the bellicose discourse, and potential humanitarian consequences of an escalation are minimized. The total absence of Iranian perspective or neutral sources transforms information into a pro-Western plea. This approach reflects Greece's traditional geopolitical alignment with NATO and its need for solidarity in the face of tensions with Turkey.

The insistence on the Strait of Hormuz reveals a major economic concern for a country still financially fragile. Greece, dependent on energy imports and maritime trade, presents this crisis as a direct threat to its economic recovery. This aspect explains the implicit support for American ultimatums, perceived as necessary to preserve vital commercial routes. The parallel with the Cypriot situation also serves to legitimize international intervention in strategic straits, an argument potentially useful in future tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean.