The closure to US-British troops of the naval base at Souda, a large facility serving US and NATO naval forces in the Mediterranean, is a key demand of opponents of the war in Iraq. Numerous demonstrations have been staged outside the base over the last weeks.

The vote Tuesday by the Chania prefectural council is non-binding for Greek authorities. The council accused US forces stationned there of violating environmental regulations by disposing hazardous material.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the Greek Navy said that military activity in the area created no environmental risk.

SPACE.WIRE