Greece was named the best place to retire in International Living’s 2026 Global Retirement Index, praised for pristine beaches, a timeless Mediterranean lifestyle, affordability, safety, and retiree visa options like the Financially Independent Person (FIP). The piece highlights the Peloponnese and islands such as Corfu, notes extensive Blue Flag beach coverage, and mentions potential dual citizenship after seven years. Practical details include one-bedroom rents around $820–$1,060 and affordable healthcare, underscoring Greece as a compelling, long-term retirement destination.
A communication failure in Greek air traffic control caused Greece to close its airspace, leading to widespread flight cancellations and delays across Europe, with thousands of passengers stranded and ongoing investigations into the technical fault.
Operations at Greek airports were temporarily halted due to radio communication issues at the main air traffic control center, causing delays and diversions, but no cyberattack was involved; some flights resumed later in the day.
Maria Sakkari and Stefanos Tsitsipas led Greece to a strong start at the 2026 United Cup in Perth, with Sakkari defeating Naomi Osaka and Tsitsipas winning his match, helping Greece secure a 3-0 victory over Japan.
Bulgaria's adoption of the euro in 2026 is expected to reduce currency friction, boost cross-border trade, tourism, and property investments with Greece, especially in northern regions, while potentially increasing inflation and competition in the long term.
Israel, Greece, and Cyprus have signed a trilateral work plan for 2026 to enhance military cooperation through joint exercises, strategic dialogue, and a rapid-response force aimed at deterring Turkey's regional activities, with a focus on quick deployment in crises across land, sea, and air.
Four hikers, including three men and one woman, were found dead after an avalanche in the Vardousia Mountains in central Greece, where they had gone missing on Christmas Day. The rescue operation was challenging due to difficult weather conditions and terrain, with efforts ongoing to recover the remaining bodies.
Israel, Greece, and Cyprus are considering forming a joint intervention force to counter Turkish activity in the eastern Mediterranean, primarily to protect regional strategic interests and deter Turkish military expansion, with preliminary planning underway but no concrete steps taken yet.
Nearly 540 asylum seekers from various countries were rescued off Crete by Greek coastguard, with their claims to be processed after health checks. The incident highlights ongoing migration challenges in Greece, especially on islands like Crete and Gavdos, amid EU efforts to manage increased migration through new policies. Human rights groups criticize these measures for risking asylum seekers' rights.
Greece has been ranked as the best country in the world for retirement in 2026 due to its affordable cost of living, accessible residency options like the Golden Visa, and high-quality healthcare, making it an attractive destination for retirees seeking a scenic and welcoming European lifestyle.
A shooting on the Greek island of Crete resulted in 2 deaths and 6 injuries, triggered by a long-standing family feud related to land disputes, prompting a significant police response and investigation.
Greece faces a declining population, especially in rural and island communities, due to low birth rates, limited opportunities, and migration, leading to school closures and concerns about the country's future demographic stability.
The Parthenon in Athens has been temporarily freed of scaffolding for the first time in about 200 years, offering visitors an unobstructed view of the historic temple, though conservation work will resume with lighter scaffolding soon, expected to be completed by 2026.
A nationwide general strike in Greece has disrupted services in opposition to proposed labour laws that would extend the workday to 13 hours, sparking protests from workers concerned about their rights, work-life balance, and economic conditions.
Organizers of a Gaza-bound aid flotilla reported being targeted by explosions and drones near Greece, with multiple vessels attacked and communications jammed, as they attempt to break the Gaza siege; Israel has stated it will not allow the flotilla to reach Gaza.
