The “Alkaios” Association of Plomari, along with local residents, has lodged complaints [1], [2] over what they describe as unauthorized interventions by Israeli individuals and companies in southern Lesbos. The reported violations include blocking roads leading to beaches, excessive water use for private swimming pools, construction projects in untouched natural areas, and even the installation of an illegal cable car near a small chapel that is otherwise accessible only by sea.
In a public statement, the association said these interventions distort the landscape, infringe on basic rights, and endanger the environment. It also referred to “colonial-style practices” and called for immediate action by the authorities, while denouncing instances of intimidation targeting locals who speak out against the projects.
Turkish and Israeli nationals currently top Greece’s “golden visa” scheme: in July alone, 2,449 permits were granted to Turkish citizens (a 152% increase from last year) and 510 to Israelis (up 96%).
Plomari, one of the island’s largest seaside towns, has in recent years attracted dozens of buyers, primarily from Israel. Tensions have often flared, particularly during periods of heightened international solidarity with Palestinians.
The opposition party New Left has formally raised the issue in Parliament, demanding government intervention and stricter oversight of investors in the area. “Israeli companies and individuals, exploiting the golden visa scheme, are committing flagrant violations of urban planning, environmental and zoning laws: closing access to the sea, destroying the natural environment and erecting massive complexes in pristine areas, without any control from the authorities,” seven of the party’s MPs said in their joint statement.
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