The attack on the home of Nikos Hardalias bears the hallmarks of a terrorist act.

It is not a… “intervention,” as some refer to “operations” of this kind, since essentially this is an attempt to intimidate not only the individual but his entire family.

The approximately 100 people wearing helmets and hoods outside the home of Attica Regional Governor, writing slogans and throwing flyers with insults directed at him, is a clear act of targeting combined with character assassination.

Unfortunately, many politicians, journalists, and public officials have fallen victim to this from time to time. It is a campaign that is launched whenever decisions are made that displease certain groups, who seek to impose their positions and views in this way or through other methods, such as, for example, “gas can attacks.”

The “reason” for the attack against N. Hardalias was the issue of the eviction of the squats currently underway in the refugee camps on Alexandras Avenue, under the pretext that they are housing relatives of children and adults with serious health problems or vulnerable families.

The regional government has taken steps—according to reports—to address these cases, which, however, are not the only ones and certainly —according to those involved—do not represent the majority. However, we are talking about squatting, a phenomenon that emerged during the post-dictatorship era among various groups and collectives that promote so-called collective action in the name of culture and other causes.

In any case, the bottom line is the attacks against all those who are targeted and terrorized by various extremist groups. Yesterday it was the refugee camps, the day before that the universities, or the position of a journalist or a politician.

Is the term “terrorist act” really that extreme? Perhaps some people equate it with victims of bombings and shootings. But—whether you like it or not—terrorism is the attempt to intimidate anyone in any way and by any means. It’s the “we know where you live,” the “neither you nor your family can feel safe in your own home.”

* This article was published in the print edition of “Manifesto”