TENSE

Greece OKs Austerity, Streets Explode

Athens accepts Europe's demands.

Eurozone finance ministers were expected to hold a conference call Thursday on providing rescue financing for Greece after the country pushed through an austerity package in parliament, fracturing the ruling Syriza party and sparking violent protests in Athens. The European Central Bank is also expected to consider Greece’s request to increase emergency assistance to its banks. Passing the austerity bill was the first step to begin negotiations on a third Greek bailout. Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras pushed the legislation through despite 38 of his party’s lawmakers voting against or abstaining from the measure. Police said 16 people were arrested and 37 others detained in demonstrations that involved protesters throwing rocks and petrol bombs outside parliament. Riot police used tear gas and baton charges.