THESSALONIKI, Greece (AP) — In the early hours of Wednesday, July 1, 2026, three firebomb attacks took place in Thessaloniki, Greece, seemingly targeting the homes of members of the ruling conservative New Democracy party. These incidents have left five individuals hospitalized, according to local authorities.
The attacks occurred between 4 a.m. and 4:45 a.m., utilizing crude explosive devices fashioned from camping gas canisters. While all injuries were reported from the final of the three attacks, the damage included burning cars and motorcycles parked near the apartment buildings where the assaults transpired.
Among the victims was a parliamentary candidate from the New Democracy party, who suffered burns during the attack. Her mother has been hospitalized in intensive care due to severe burns. Additionally, three other residents from the affected apartment building required hospitalization for smoke inhalation, indicating the potentially perilous nature of the assault.
Attacks orchestrated by unidentified militant groups targeting government figures, police, or symbols of authority are not uncommon in Greece. Typically, these assaults result in property damage rather than injuries. However, the recent incident marks a concerning trend, showcasing an escalation in violence. For context, a bomb detonated in July 2025 outside the home of the president of the Greek association of prison guards in Thessaloniki caused glass-related injuries to two nearby individuals, although the intended target remained unharmed.
In another instance of escalating aggression, a gasoline bomb attack in June 2024 injured a police officer assigned to guard a prominent judge's residence in Athens. These examples underscore the climate of unrest and hostility prevalent in certain segments of Greek society, particularly against perceived bastions of power.
As investigations into the recent attacks unfold, law enforcement agencies are expected to increase their surveillance and security measures, particularly around key political figures and government buildings, in order to prevent further incidents. The government and public are left grappling with the implications of these brazen assaults amid an environment rife with political tension.
