In a move strengthening regional defense alliances, Greece has decided to keep its Patriot missile battery stationed in Saudi Arabia following a request from the Kingdom. This decision was confirmed during a meeting between Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh.
The Greek missile battery, which has been in Saudi Arabia since 2021, plays a crucial role in intercepting threats such as Houthi drones and missiles aimed at important Saudi energy infrastructure, including locations like Yanbu. The continued deployment underscores Greece’s commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia’s air defense capabilities.
Prime Minister Mitsotakis condemned the attacks on Saudi Arabia and reaffirmed Greece’s support for the Kingdom’s security. Both leaders emphasized their ongoing strategic partnership, exploring avenues to expand cooperation in defense, energy, and connectivity.
Discussions between the two leaders also touched on broader regional security issues, including the evolving situation with Iran and the critical importance of maintaining open and secure international shipping routes to safeguard global trade.
Additionally, Mitsotakis and the Crown Prince reviewed the East to Med Data Corridor project, which aims to enhance digital connectivity between Europe and Asia, utilizing Greece and Saudi Arabia as pivotal points. They also discussed preparations for the upcoming Greece-Saudi Arabia Supreme Council for Strategic Cooperation meeting, assessing progress since the council’s first session in January 2025.