Two American tourists injured in knife attack near Athens' Acropolis

Two American tourists were injured in a suspected random knife attack near the Acropolis in Athens on Tuesday morning after a man allegedly targeted pedestrians close to one of Greece's most visited landmarks.

According to local authorities, the incident occurred around 8 a.m. near the entrance to the ancient archaeological site and the nearby Acropolis Museum.

Officials said the suspect, identified by local media as a 60-year-old Greek man, had reportedly threatened other pedestrians before attacking the tourists.

The female victim suffered minor injuries to her leg, while the male tourist sustained serious injuries to his arm after reportedly stepping in to protect her. Emergency responders treated him at the scene, applying a tourniquet to control the bleeding before he was transported to a hospital by ambulance.

Local reports said both victims are receiving treatment and are expected to recover. Authorities confirmed they are out of danger.

The suspect was detained at the scene by police and remains in custody. According to local media, he was known to authorities and is believed to be experiencing homelessness.

Witnesses described scenes of panic as the attack unfolded near crowds waiting to enter the historic attraction.

One eyewitness told local media they heard screams before seeing the woman lying on the ground covered in blood. Another visitor said people scattered as the suspect approached with a knife before police and emergency crews quickly secured the area.

Despite the incident, the Acropolis and surrounding archaeological sites remained open and continued operating as normal after authorities cleared the scene.