Violent Clashes Outside Greek Parliament as Leaders Vote on EU Bailout

Greek MPs are expected to approve an 86 billion euro bailout deal which would come with an increased retirement age for Greek citizens and increased tax rates.

Nearly 12,500 people are believed to be participating in the anti-austerity rally in Syntagma Square. Journalists on the scene reported pepper spray and tear gas being released by riot police against protesters who were throwing Molotov cocktails and rocks.

Over 50 people have been detained, Mega TV reported.

Protests began as a general strike with at least 10 separate protests occurring across Athens, largely expressing their frustrations with the new bailout terms approved by eurozone leaders earlier this week. Demonstrators are calling for Greek leaders to reject the bailout and negotiate for better terms from creditors.

According to Greece's Skai TV, a journalist who was covering the riots in Syntagma Square was wounded, sustaining an injury to his leg.

"It may pass through parliament," Greek energy minister Panagiotis Lafazanis said in a statement, referring to the bailout proposal. "But the people will never accept it and they will be united in their fight against it."

Austerity measures would include a top VAT rate of 23% to take in processed foods, 13% rate to cover fresh food, energy bills, and water, and a 6% rate for medicines and books. It would also raise the corporate tax rate from 26% to 29% and implement a luxury tax on cars, boats, and swimming pools.

Over half of the members of the central committee of the ruling Syriza party signed a statement condemning the bailout, saying it amounted to a coup against Greece by European leaders.