Greece political violence escalates after firebomb attack kills mother of candidate

Thursday 02 July 2026 - 11:00

By: Sahili Aya

Greece political violence escalates after firebomb attack kills mother of candidate

A deadly firebomb attack in northern Greece has prompted the governing New Democracy party to call for public protests, following the death of the mother of a parliamentary candidate in a targeted arson assault that has reignited concerns over political violence in the country.

The attack occurred in Thessaloniki, where assailants reportedly placed incendiary devices at residential buildings linked to party figures, triggering explosions and widespread destruction.

Victim dies after severe burns

Authorities confirmed that 72-year-old Vagia Nestora, mother of candidate Afroditi Nestora, died in hospital from organ failure after suffering burns covering most of her body. The candidate herself was also injured, alongside several other individuals affected by the blast.

Medical officials said the severity of the injuries reflected the intensity of the firebombing, which caused rapid structural damage to multiple homes.

Ruling party calls for street demonstrations

In response to the attack, the New Democracy party urged supporters to take to the streets in protest, describing the incident as a direct assault on democratic life and public safety. The appeal marks a rare moment of mass mobilization called by the governing party in recent years.

Political leaders framed the demonstration call as a response to what they see as an escalation in targeted violence against public figures.

Investigation underway amid no claim of responsibility

Greek authorities have launched an investigation into the attack, which involved the use of gas canisters as incendiary devices placed outside residential properties before dawn.

So far, no group has claimed responsibility. Officials noted that while political arson attacks have occurred periodically in Greece, fatalities linked to such incidents targeting politicians are rare in recent decades.

Renewed concerns over political violence

The incident has revived debate over the persistence of extremist violence in Greece, a country that has historically experienced waves of political militancy, including arson and bombings.

Security analysts say the attack could prompt renewed scrutiny of protection measures for political figures and their families, particularly during election cycles and periods of heightened political tension.