Mitsotakis expresses horror and sorrow at Hamas' terrorist attacks against Israel

Mitsotakis underlined Israel's right to self-defence in accordance with international law.

He reiterated the need to protect civilians, free the Israelis held hostage by Hamas and avoid a humanitarian crisis.

The prime minister's exchange with Netanyahu at the start of their meeting was as follows:

Benjamin Netanyahu: Prime Minister, my dear friend Kyriakos, I am very glad to see you here. I always say that the best thing besides standing with Israel, is being in Israel. I appreciate your solidarity, that of your government and the Greek people, in this dark hour. It is a battle of civilisation against barbarism. We are on the side of civilisation and we must all unite against Hamas, which is the Islamic State (ISIS).

Kyriakos Mitsotakis: Thank you very much, Prime Minister, dear Bibi. I come here not only as an ally, but as a true friend. What happened was truly horrific. From the first moment, Greece defended and supported Israel's right to self-defence, according to International Law. We made a very clear distinction between Hamas and the Palestinian people. We will continue to support you and hope that whatever happens must happen without great humanitarian cost. You can count on our support, our help.

Benjamin Netanyahu: Thank you, my friend. Thank you.