Greece’s Minister of National Defence, Nikos Dendias, has publicly condemned an attack on government minister Makis Voridis and members of his family, describing the incident as “a disgrace for our democracy.”
In a post on social media platform X, Mr Dendias expressed his “unreserved sympathy” for Mr Voridis, his partner Danai and their young daughter after the family were reportedly targeted by masked assailants during an incident in Crete. “Such actions are a disgrace for our democracy,” the Defence Minister wrote, urging public rejection of political violence.
The attack, which local reports say occurred at a restaurant in Heraklion, Crete, involved a group of hooded individuals. Authorities are investigating the circumstances; further official details and any arrests have not yet been disclosed publicly. The incident has drawn immediate condemnation from senior government figures and increased attention to the security of public officials and their families.
In a separate remark carried by Greek media, Mr Voridis himself said the violent tactics “do not surprise” him and “do not intimidate” him, characterising the perpetrators’ behaviour as “abject.” His brief statement suggested a determination to continue his public duties despite the assault and signalled an expectation that law enforcement will pursue those responsible.
The episode comes amid a tense national political climate in which attacks or intimidatory actions against politicians and public figures generate widespread alarm. Political parties across the spectrum are likely to respond, calling for calm and for swift police action. Officials have stressed that violent tactics have no place in democratic debate and must be addressed through the rule of law.
Police in Crete have launched inquiries and are reviewing CCTV and eyewitness accounts, according to local sources. Investigators will seek to establish the identity of the hooded assailants and whether the incident was politically motivated or related to personal disputes. The government’s firm reaction—symbolised by Mr Dendias’s strong-language post—signals that authorities will treat the case seriously.
As the story develops, officials have appealed to citizens to allow investigators to do their work and to avoid escalation. Further updates are expected once investigators release their findings.
