Tensions flared in Syntagma Square in Athens at 1:00 PM just minutes after the conclusion of the major rally related to the Tempi train disaster that took place on Friday, February 28.
A group of unidentified hooded individuals began smashing marble slabs outside the King George Hotel before throwing Molotov cocktails and firecrackers into the courtyard of the Greek Parliament. Hooded protesters set fire outside the nearby Grande Bretagne Hotel, scrawling slogans, including the word “rage,” on its walls.
The same groups then moved towards the Parliament courtyard, hurling Molotov cocktails that ignited a fire in the sentry booth of the guard stationed at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The protesters also pelted police officers inside the courtyard with stones and other objects.
According to reports, a kiosk owner was injured in the chaos and was escorted by police to safety until paramedics arrived.
As reported, many elderly individuals and families who were there for the Tempi rally, sought refuge in nearby arcades in central Athens to protect themselves from the unrest. Several people reported experiencing respiratory issues due to the heavy use of tear gas in the area. There are also unverified reports of injured citizens and police.
Police officers attempted to disperse the thousands of demonstrators, who had gathered to remember the victims of the 2023 Tempi train crash, as they exited the square following the rally. Meanwhile, Parliament opened its doors to allow protesters experiencing discomfort from the tear gas to seek refuge inside, following an order from Parliament President Nikitas Kaklamanis.
Authorities are working to restore order as the situation remains volatile.
Unrest Spreads to Thessaloniki
Clashes also broke out in Thessaloniki near the central bus station outside the OSE railway offices on Monastiriou Street. A group of hooded individuals and masked protesters threw objects and stones at police forces in the area, further escalating tensions across the country.
