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July 11, 2025 – Greece –
Greek journalist Yannis Pretenteris narrowly escaped a potential assassination attempt after police discovered and defused an explosive device outside his residence in the Neo Psychiko neighborhood of northern Athens on July 10, 2025. The improvised explosive device (IED), reportedly containing around five kilograms of TNT, was found near the fence of his home early in the morning. Bomb disposal experts safely neutralized the device, and authorities have launched a terrorism investigation to identify those responsible.
Pretenteris is a prominent political commentator and columnist with a long career in Greek media, including work with the daily Ta Nea and broadcaster Mega TV. He is known for his outspoken views and criticism of political extremism, which some believe may have made him a target. Though no group has claimed responsibility, investigators are considering links to domestic extremist networks or individuals with motives tied to his journalistic work.
The attempted attack has been widely condemned by press freedom organizations, including the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and the Journalists’ Union of Athens Daily Newspapers (JUADN). In a joint statement, they expressed deep concern over rising threats to journalists in Greece and called for swift justice. The IFJ emphasized that “violence and intimidation against journalists are unacceptable” and urged the Greek government to ensure the safety of media professionals and safeguard press freedom.
This incident follows a troubling trend in Greece, where journalists have increasingly faced threats, harassment, and physical attacks. The 2021 assassination of crime reporter Giorgos Karaivaz outside his home remains unresolved and has drawn criticism over the government’s handling of journalist safety. Press freedom advocates have warned that the continued impunity for such attacks is emboldening perpetrators and creating a climate of fear within the media sector.
Greek authorities have yet to release further details about suspects or motives. However, the gravity of this attempt has reignited calls for enhanced protection mechanisms for journalists, better investigative follow-through, and stronger public messaging against press-targeted violence. As the investigation unfolds, Pretenteris remains under police protection, and the case has sparked renewed national debate over the safety of journalists in democratic societies.
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