Cyprus will join three U.S. defense programs, as announced by President Joe Biden. This participation is expected to modernize the Cypriot Armed Forces and enhance security relations with the U.S. It is seen as a strategic move that could lead to further recognition of Cyprus's regional role. This development marks another historic step in the defense cooperation between Washington and Nicosia.
The agreement between Israel and Hamas outlines a three-phase process with a ceasefire lasting six weeks. During this period, Israeli forces will withdraw, and Palestinians will return to northern Gaza. The agreement includes the release of hostages and humanitarian aid, with negotiations for the next phases starting in 16 days. Ultimately, the third phase will focus on the reconstruction of Gaza.
The President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, stated that no explanations were requested from the Minister of Labor, Giannakis Panayiotou, regarding his statements about a football club. He confirmed that the Minister's remarks are correct, although a specific reference could have been avoided. The President emphasized that the laws apply to everyone and will be adhered to without exceptions. Legislation is considered independent of personal opinions or influences from the Minister or the President.
Only one bullet hole was found on the rental vehicle used by the 39-year-old from Cameroon. The Police clarified that there has been misinformation regarding the condition of the vehicle, which was seized in the investigation of a foreign national's death. The vehicle was cleaned, and forensic examinations will be conducted. The 39-year-old is being questioned to clarify all aspects of the case.
Israel and Hamas have reached a truce agreement in Gaza and an understanding for the release of hostages. The negotiations took place over an extended period in Doha. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar canceled his European tour to participate in the votes concerning the agreement.
TikTok may be banned in the U.S. on January 19 unless the Supreme Court accepts ByteDance's legal challenge against the ban. If the ban is enforced, users won’t be able to download the app but can continue to use it if already installed. However, a lack of updates would make the app less functional over time. Meanwhile, the Chinese app RedNote is gaining popularity as users look for alternatives.
The appointment process for the Director of the Parliament has been ongoing for 16 years, marked by continuous legal battles among three candidates. Ms. Vasiliki Anastasiadou's promotion has faced numerous challenges and annulments. The latest court decision revoked her reappointment, requiring the Executive Committee to reassess the situation for a third time. The matter highlights disputes over qualifications and evaluation processes.
A 21-year-old mother from Thessaloniki admitted to negligence leading to the death of her 3.5-month-old daughter. The case is undergoing psychiatric evaluation, pending reports from psychologists before a final assessment is completed. The mother faces serious charges of manslaughter due to negligence and may face life imprisonment. The next court hearing is scheduled for February 12.
The number of deaths due to seasonal infections has reached 12, including an infant. Most deaths are attributed to the flu, with 8 out of 10 patients hospitalized in public hospitals. There are currently 10 patients in intensive care units. Since January 1, 2025, there have been numerous admissions due to the flu.
The Cyprus Consumer Association reported a 24% increase in complaints for 2024, with a total reimbursement of €3,240.76 to consumers. The largest increases were noted in the categories of 'Passenger Rights', 'Distance Selling', 'Energy', and 'Tourism Services'. Complaints also included online fraud and the rising cost of essential goods. These issues were attributed to factors such as strikes and energy prices.
The police inform the public about the service concerning extrajudicial matters related to photo enforcement. For any inquiries, you can call the contractor at 80008009. Efforts are already underway to reduce waiting times and enhance public service. Procedural issues fall under the contractor's responsibility.
In May, compensation payments are expected to begin for affected depositors and bondholders. A total of 13,000 applications have been submitted, and their evaluation has already started. The Minister of Finance confirmed the government's commitment to address this pending request. The payment process will be repeated annually.
A two-month-old infant hospitalized at Makarios Hospital due to severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) has died. The director of Medical Services at the Ministry of Health stated that the infant had serious underlying health conditions. The exact cause of death will be determined through special processes by the World Health Organization. Further clarifications are expected in the coming period.
A Mazda vehicle used by a 39-year-old man from Cameroon was found with a bullet hole that had been repaired. Authorities will investigate the trajectory of the bullet using specialized tools. The suspect has been arrested and is being interrogated to clarify all aspects of the case. He was discovered hiding in a basement in the Aglandjia area.
Influenza is causing serious effects in Cyprus, with ten patients hospitalized in ICUs. Since the beginning of winter, there have been a total of ten deaths attributed to influenza, most occurring in public hospitals. The patients primarily consist of vulnerable elderly individuals with underlying health conditions, highlighting the need for caution among the public. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and urging adherence to protective measures.
Konstantinos Tasoulas has been proposed as the presidential candidate by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. The Prime Minister emphasized the need for a figure with experience and broad acceptance in a challenging political climate. Tasoulas has been elected three times as President of the Hellenic Parliament, demonstrating his ability to unite. The proposal also includes the idea that the President should be elected for a single 6-year term.
Minister of Labor, Giannis Panagiotou, and his family have received threats and insults related to a court case. He sees it as his duty to protect the public interest and is not concerned about the attacks. He notes that the mention of a specific union could have been avoided. Despite the threats, he states he has not decided to take legal action against them.
In the next Joker draw, at least €12,800,000 will be shared among the winners of the first category. This follows a mega jackpot in the 2858th draw. There were no winners in the second category.
The 39-year-old suspect wanted in connection with the Potamia case has recently been arrested. He is from Cameroon, and authorities are still searching for three Turkish Cypriots. Additionally, the vehicle that was sought has been located. More details will follow soon.
The four suspects in the Potamia incident are likely to be in the occupied areas. Three of them are Turkish Cypriots, while the fourth suspect from Cameroon is believed to either be hiding in the free areas or have crossed into the occupied areas. The Police is seeking assistance from the bicommunal committee for their capture through the United Nations. Additionally, a new investigator has been appointed to oversee a disciplinary inquiry against a forensic doctor.
The Cabinet has decided to extend the deadline for applications for grants to new couples under 41 years of age, as the required 400 applications were not received. New regulations adjust the income criteria and housing area limits to include more candidates. The financial aid ranges from €20,000 to €50,000 depending on the applicant's family situation. The aim of the program is to assist in covering the costs of buying or constructing a home.
The Ministry of Health is taking measures to address respiratory viruses by requesting an increase in doctors at emergency clinics. Schools, hospitals, and healthcare professionals will be informed, and additional antiviral medications will be secured. There is particular concern about the rise in flu cases and low vaccination rates in nursing homes. The ministry plans further actions to tackle the epidemiological situation.
The police have released the details and photographs of four individuals wanted in connection with the Potamia case. The charges include attempted murder and conspiracy to commit a felony. The individuals range in age from 22 to 62 and are from Cameroon and Turkish Cyprus. Citizens are urged to assist in identifying them.
APOEL appeared before the District Court of Nicosia for debts of €2.3 million in social security contributions from 2020 to 2022. The case was postponed to March 4, while APOEL's lawyer mentioned that discussions are ongoing to settle the debts. Already, three out of five cases have been paid. The indictment includes 11 individuals, including officials from APOEL.
There is new momentum in the Cyprus issue, with discussions around a loose federation solution. RTK leader Tufan Erhurman advocates for a decentralized solution and calls on AKEL and DISY for support. The international community seems to favor a structure with strong founding state mechanisms rather than a central government. Developments will become clearer in February and March, with potential visits from international representatives to Cyprus.
A female football player has reported sexual harassment by a member of her team's coaching staff. The Cyprus Football Players Association has been informed and has taken steps to remove the accused. The Cyprus Football Association urged the Association to report the incident to the police, highlighting the seriousness of the situation. The claims include references to criminal behaviors such as grooming.
The police are getting closer to solving the case of the shooting in Potamia, where a Pakistani man was killed. Four arrest warrants have been issued, and the driver of a rented vehicle involved in the incident has been identified. Authorities are working to locate the vehicle, which is believed to hold vital information. The three wanted Turkish Cypriots are in the occupied territories, and efforts are expected for their handover.
The appeal of a well-known lawyer from Limassol regarding a police order related to citizenship applications was rejected by the Court of Appeals. The law firm challenged the order, claiming that the police did not follow proper procedures. The court confirmed that the appealing parties still have the right to raise further objections in future proceedings. The issue concerns the collection of evidence that may have been tampered with during the investigations.
More than 11,000 penalties from cameras were paid recently, following the police's deadline until March 31. Many drivers faced difficulties finding their penalties, with some being locked and unable to be paid. The Legal Service clarified that offenses from cameras do not expire, allowing violators to settle their fines. If they do not pay, they risk facing higher fines and criminal charges.
The Tax Department is preparing charges against over 100 current and former directors of football companies, who owe a total of €35.5 million in taxes. The charges relate to the period from July 1, 2007, to March 31, 2023. Additionally, APOEL is facing overdue payments of €2.3 million to the Social Insurance Department and has only made a small payment so far. Many football teams have been excluded from the repayment plan due to non-compliance with tax obligations.
Influenza is becoming dominant among children, overtaking the respiratory syncytial virus. Pediatricians urge parents to keep sick children at home and call on employers to accommodate parents. Visits to pediatric clinics have increased amid seasonal infections. It is crucial for parents not to solely rely on negative test results, as these may not be reliable.