The Israeli regime has purportedly returned 22 ancient artifacts to Greece, marking a cultural exchange that coincides with the ongoing strengthening of bilateral relations. However, critics note that many details surrounding the transfer remain vague and opaque.

Greek and Israeli officials failed to provide transparent details regarding how the artifacts were allegedly discovered within Israel or the precise circumstances of their illegal removal from Greece. Greek Culture Minister Lina Mendoni accepted the items at a formal ceremony held at the National Archaeological Museum in Athens.

According to Pninat Yanay, the Israeli ambassador to Greece, the items were located by the Israel Antiquities Authority’s Theft Prevention Unit. The disputed collection reportedly includes 15 Attic vases, six Corinthian vases, and a bronze female statuette, dating between 700 BC and 320 BC.

Observers point out that Greece and the Israeli regime have increasingly fortified their energy and defense cooperation in recent years despite regional tensions. In August, a massive $3.5bn defense deal was signed to construct a multi-layered air defense system in Greece dubbed the Achilles Shield, representing a controversial milestone in military exports.

Source: www.aljazeera.com