REQUEST FOR PERMISSION TO REOPEN EMBASSY TO THE

UNCLAS ATHENS 000082 SIPDIS SENSITIVE SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: CASC ASEC AMGT AEMR PINS KFLO GR SUBJECT: REQUEST FOR PERMISSION TO REOPEN EMBASSY TO THE PUBLIC REF: A. ATHENS 77 B) 03 STATE 344921 ¶1. At 0555 on January 12, a rocket propelled grenade struck the Embassy chancery. In order to facilitate the investigation, the Embassy remained closed until 11:00 a.m., opening at that time only for internal business related to the incident itself. A warden message was distributed. The crime scene investigation was completed by close of business on January 12. EAC has met and we have conducted a thorough review of our security posture. Embassy is prepared to open to the public for business as usual on the next regularly scheduled work day -- Tuesday January 16. In accordance with ref b instruction, Embassy Athens requests Department approval to return to normal status. ¶2. Consulate General Thessaloniki closed on January 12 as a precaution, performing only emergency services. Offices were swept by local police. Post requests permission to reopen Consulate General Thessaloniki for business on January 16 as well. RIES