ATHENS, July 9 (Xinhua) -- Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced on Wednesday that Greece will temporarily suspend the processing of asylum applications for migrants arriving by sea from Africa.
Speaking before parliament, Mitsotakis said the decision followed an emergency meeting with Migration and Asylum Minister Thanos Plevris earlier in the day.
"This is an emergency response to an emergency situation," the prime minister said, referring to the sharp rise in migrant arrivals to the island of Crete in recent months.
The measure will initially be in effect for three months.
"All migrants who illegally enter the country will be arrested and detained," Mitsotakis said, emphasizing the government's intent to send a clear message to smugglers and prospective migrants.
A draft bill outlining stricter migration measures is set to be submitted to parliament on Thursday.
The prime minister added that, as part of the new policy, a closed detention center will be established on Crete.
According to the Hellenic Coast Guard, more than 740 migrants have arrived in Crete since Tuesday alone. In total, over 9,000 migrants have reached the island so far this year, marking a 350 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024, authorities said. ■