The Hellenic Police have implemented a special operational plan to provide 24-hour security for the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Athens. The new measures, which include constant foot patrols and dedicated security units, are designed to safeguard the national monument located in front of the Parliament building.
This decision follows the recent passage of new legislation aimed at regulating behavior at the historic site and comes after a series of public incidents renewed debate over the monument's protection.
Key Takeaways
- A 24-hour police guard is now in effect at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Athens.
- The new security plan includes foot patrols, monitoring units, and a designated police mediator.
- These measures are supported by new legislation that prohibits certain activities, such as smoking or playing music, at the site.
- Government officials state the move is necessary to preserve the sanctity and historical value of the national memorial.
A New Era of Security for a National Symbol
In a significant move to protect one of Greece's most revered national symbols, authorities in Athens have established a permanent, round-the-clock police presence at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The Hellenic Police leadership has rolled out a detailed operational plan to ensure the site's security and maintain public order.
The plan is a direct response to growing concerns about preserving the monument's symbolic value. It aims to prevent any actions deemed disrespectful or unlawful that could tarnish the prestige of the memorial, which stands as a focal point for national remembrance in Syntagma Square.
Details of the Operational Plan
The security strategy is multi-layered, designed to be both a visible deterrent and a rapid-response framework. Key components include:
- Constant Foot Patrols: Officers will be physically present at the monument 24 hours a day, providing a continuous security shield.
- Dedicated Monitoring Units: Additional security teams will be tasked with observing the surrounding area to identify any suspicious individuals or activities before they escalate.
- Appointed Mediator: A specific police officer will be assigned the role of mediator. This individual will act as a liaison between the public and law enforcement, aiming to ensure smooth communication and de-escalate potential issues.
This structured approach allows the police to adapt their response based on the situation, from routine monitoring to heightened vigilance during public gatherings.
The Significance of the Monument
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, located in front of the Hellenic Parliament, is a war memorial dedicated to Greek soldiers killed in conflict. It is guarded by the Evzones, an elite ceremonial unit of the Greek Army, whose intricate Changing of the Guard ceremony is a major public attraction. The monument is considered a sacred site of national importance.
Government Stance and New Legislation
The implementation of this security plan is backed by a recently passed legislative amendment specifically regulating conduct at the monument. Government officials have been clear about the intent behind the law and the new police presence.
Government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis addressed the issue directly on Wednesday, emphasizing the government's firm position.
"The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is sacred, and rallies or demonstrations in the area will not be permitted," Marinakis stated.
He further clarified the scope of the new rules, which extend beyond large-scale events to include individual behavior. The legislation explicitly prohibits activities that are seen as undermining the solemnity of the site.
Prohibited Activities
According to government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis, the new amendment explicitly forbids activities such as smoking and playing musical instruments like guitars at the memorial site.
Enforcing the Law
The government has stressed that the amendment became necessary due to a lack of consensus on what constitutes appropriate behavior at the monument. Recent incidents and rallies in the area brought the issue to the forefront, prompting lawmakers to take definitive action.
"The police will enforce the law. We are achieving the goal of enforcing the law," Marinakis explained. "Unfortunately, for this to happen, the amendment was necessary. Because we were not all on the same page."
This statement underscores the official view that legal enforcement is now required to ensure universal respect for the memorial's status.
Structure for Escalated Response
The operational plan also accounts for situations that may require a more robust police response. In the event of unexpected gatherings or heightened security alerts, the protocol calls for a rapid deployment of additional forces.
A team of 20 uniformed officers, equipped with full operational gear, is designated as the first-response unit for such scenarios. This ensures that law enforcement can quickly establish control and manage any developing situations before they disrupt public order or compromise the security of the monument.
The police leadership has affirmed that the plan will be implemented with "consistency and responsibility." The stated goal is to strike a balance between maintaining order and respecting the rights of citizens, while ultimately prioritizing the protection of a site of immense national importance. The new security measures represent a clear message from the state: the sanctity of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is non-negotiable.
