Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz on Monday issued his first public remarks on the massive "Achilles Shield" defense agreement signed between Israel and Greece, congratulating both nations on the deal while appearing to aim a subtle dig at Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
Katz recalled his visit to Greece several months earlier as the guest of Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias, describing it as "another expression of the depth of the strategic relationship between Israel and Greece and our shared determination to continue strengthening it." During that meeting, he noted, the two sides agreed to tighten defense cooperation between their countries.
The defense minister stressed that Israel and Greece share common strategic interests and face similar regional challenges. "Precisely at a time when actors with hegemonic aspirations seek to expand their influence and undermine stability in the region, Israel and Greece will continue to deepen their security and strategic cooperation," Katz said. "They will act with determination to preserve stability and fortify their security and shared interests."
