The Israeli army has taken over the Kamal Odwan Hospital in northern Gaza, where fighting has intensified. The images coming from the hospital are shocking, as forces are holding patients and medical staff. The World Health Organization expresses concern for the situation, having lost contact with the hospital staff. Israeli attacks in Khan Younis have resulted in at least 38 deaths, including women and children.
A 15-year-old in the U.S. is accused of killing his parents and three siblings, attempting to blame his deceased 13-year-old brother. The only survivor, an 11-year-old sister, testified that the 15-year-old shot her. The family was seen as perfect by neighbors, with the parents being religious and opting for homeschooling their children. The 15-year-old now faces serious charges for first-degree murder.
The Cypriot embassy in New York has been closed for seven years after a fire, and despite spending millions on rent, it remains unused. There are slow rehabilitation processes, and no one knows when restoration work will begin. Officials acknowledge the issue, but there seems to be no progress in restoring the building. The chairperson of the Financial Committee points out that the money spent could have been used to build a new structure.
The unions OUXEKA SEK and SYXKA PEO are planning strike actions in the hotel industry due to the failure to renew the collective agreement. This decision follows the rejection of the Minister of Labor's mediation proposal. As of 25/10/2024, the situation is considered strike-ready, as negotiations have failed. Leaders of the unions are urging workers to join the upcoming actions.
The Ministry of Interior refuses to disclose the names of 86 foreigners whose Cypriot citizenship has been revoked. While authorities will provide the number of passports and dates, names will not be made public due to ongoing investigations into possible violations of the Cypriot Investment Program. The Ministry cites legal reasons and data protection regulations. The Parliament is not considered a recipient of this information regarding transparency and parliamentary oversight.
The expulsion of students for using mobile phones should be the last resort according to a circular from the Ministry of Education. This directive aims to guide schools to first use milder penalties, such as warnings and reprimands. Expulsion will only be considered for repeated or more serious offenses. The circular will take effect from next Tuesday.
The police director of Larnaca, Charalampos Zachariou, expresses his gratitude for the decision to rescind his transfer. He thanks everyone who supported him during this time. He states that he will continue to work hard for a safer society. He also highlights the good collaboration with the Police Chief.
The Cabinet decided on the movement of Directors General of Ministries, effective November 1, 2024. Andreas Zachariadis will take over the Ministry of Finance, George Panteli will lead the Ministry of Education, and Marina Ioannou-Chasapi will head the Ministry of Transport. Additionally, Penelope Papavasileiou and Anna Aristotelous will assume temporary Director General positions in designated services. These decisions were based on the needs of the public service.
The 15-year-old involved in the dissemination of altered nude photos of female students has been released under specific conditions. He faces charges related to the trafficking of child pornography and has been banned from using electronic devices and contacting the victims. The incident caused significant disruption at the school, and other students' involvement is being investigated. Further details are expected as the investigation continues.
Following strong reactions, the decision to transfer Larnaca police chief Charalambos Zachariou has been revoked. Police officials and politicians expressed their opposition and demanded explanations, highlighting Zachariou's serious health issues. He has been informed of the decision, and official announcements are expected soon.
The new Chief of Police, Themistocles Arnaoutis, is facing backlash over his decisions regarding the transfers of senior officers, which have sparked significant concern. Notably, the transfer of Charalampos Zachariou, who suffers from serious health issues, has raised alarms among police circles and former high-ranking officials. These transfers occurred without detailed explanations, leading to further questions within the police community. The situation remains tense and unresolved.
A 15-year-old student from Larnaca is facing charges in court for distributing edited nude photos of his classmates. Investigations reveal numerous photos, and other students may also be involved. The incident caused significant disturbance at the school, raising concerns among students and parents. The issue came to light when students reported it to the school administration.
The three members of the elite police unit returned to their duties after a convict escaped on September 26. The convict fled during a visit to his parents, while his escorts were unaware. A disciplinary investigation is pending to determine if any misconduct occurred. Four prison guards are already on suspension over the incident.
Young individuals in Agios Athanasios appear to have organized attacks on food delivery drivers. This issue has raised concerns among authorities, who are trying to track down the perpetrators. The three suspects who were arrested deny any involvement. Their lawyers challenge the detention request.
The transfer of Larnaca's police chief, Charalambos Zachariou, has sparked strong reactions in the city. Many express dissatisfaction with the decision, emphasizing the successful collaboration they had with him, especially as he faces serious health issues. The mayor of Larnaca and other figures are calling for explanations regarding this decision. The atmosphere in the Larnaca Police Directorate is heavy, with officers concerned about their future.
The transport ministry's budget for 2025 amounts to €789.6 million, representing a 19% increase from 2024. It includes significant infrastructure projects like highways and buildings, totaling over €600 million. Additionally, revenues from the port of Limassol are increasing, reaching €417 million to date.
Yaser Arar, aged 40, has been sentenced to life imprisonment for his involvement in the murder of Dimitris Andronikos. The murder occurred in 2024, when Arar shot the victim. He admitted the charges and expressed remorse for his actions. Arar is now participating in a witness protection program.
The 'Casts of an Island 2024' exhibition offers a unique digital experience through a 3D virtual tour. Many artists participate, showcasing a range of artistic proposals that explore cultural unity. The title of the exhibition is derived from a monumental installation by Socrates Socratous. The exhibition will be open until December 1st, with specified visiting hours.
In Limassol, a violent attack against a food delivery worker was reported. Three suspects were arrested and deny any involvement in the case. The victim claimed that the attackers attempted to steal his phone and bag. Police investigations are ongoing, seeking footage from nearby surveillance cameras.
A new attack on a 28-year-old food delivery driver occurred in Limassol on Thursday night. The victim was followed by two motorcycles, whose occupants kicked and beat him with bats in an attempt to rob him. He managed to escape and call the police, who arrested three suspects. The assailants are expected to appear in court.
The police are investigating a case of illegal possession of cannabis, with an 18-year-old having been arrested. The teenager allegedly left a bag containing about 400 grams of cannabis in the yard of a house. A mobile phone was also found in the bag. The teen was arrested after a court warrant was issued.
The weather is mostly clear with some increased high clouds. Winds will be light to moderate, with temperatures reaching 27 degrees during the day. At night, temperatures will drop to around 12 degrees inland and about 16 degrees at the coast. The upcoming three days are expected to remain mostly clear with temperatures close to average climatic values.
Israel is sending a negotiation team to Qatar to restart discussions regarding the situation in Gaza. Hamas has expressed openness to a ceasefire under certain conditions. Previous negotiations have failed, but tensions remain high as Israeli forces continue operations in the region. Both sides seem to desire a resolution, although the terms are still contentious.
The parliament unanimously approved strict measures to tackle undeclared work. Administrative fines for undeclared employment will be doubled, and mandatory electronic registration of employees is introduced. The Minister of Labor highlighted the significant financial losses caused by undeclared work. These changes are expected to come into effect soon.
There is an increase in cross-border deposits by households in the eurozone in banks of other countries. These deposits are small but growing rapidly, as citizens choose banks that offer higher interest rates. The highest growth is observed in Italy, while Luxembourg records the highest percentage of foreign deposits. This trend may indicate the potential for a more unified banking union in the future.
The Central Committee for Changes and Demands approved the agreement between the state and Hermes Airports for the second phase of the infrastructure works at Larnaca and Paphos airports. This agreement includes an extension of the management contract for another 18 months. The Commissioner for State Aid Control found no issues regarding state aid, and the necessary procedures are progressing. The Minister of Transport announced that there will soon be updates.
A 15-year-old was arrested by police for distributing manipulated nude photos of students and teachers at a secondary school in Larnaca district. The police are investigating whether other students are involved in the case. Parents were informed that the images are digitally altered, and authorities are addressing the issue. The incident caused significant distress at the school, particularly for some female students who found their faces placed on indecent images.
Ersin Tatar rejected President Christodoulides' proposal for three discussion tables concerning the Cyprus issue, insisting on a 4+1 format. He indicated that Greek Cypriots want British participation and criticized the United Nations for being biased. Tatar emphasized that only with Turkey's presence can there be balance in negotiations. He highlighted the importance of substantial discussions and the lack of positive responses from other parties.