5 Minute News

India launched missile strikes on three locations in Pakistan, raising concerns about escalating tensions between the two nations. The Indian military stated that the attacks were targeted and did not hit any Pakistani military installations. Pakistan confirmed the attack and warned of a possible response. The two countries are in strained relations, especially following recent attacks in Kashmir.

A fire broke out near the port of Limassol, prompting authorities to respond. The fire was located in an open area between the port and the casino. Explosions were heard in the area where containers are usually stored. Police and firefighting forces are present at the scene.

President Donald Trump announced that the Houthi rebels in Yemen have surrendered, and U.S. bombings will cease immediately. The Houthis expressed that they no longer wish to continue the conflict. Trump emphasized that the bombings will stop if the rebels agree to respect maritime navigation. This decision follows negotiations aimed at halting the hostilities.

A serious incident occurred in Larnaca where a police officer was injured by a foreign individual. The officer sustained an injury under the eye and received first aid at the hospital. The incident happened while the officer responded to a traffic accident. The suspect, of Arab descent, is wanted and has had previous issues with the police.

The 52-year-old suspect in the murder of Giannis Argyris has been taken to the Forensic Investigation Service for a vehicle investigation, where significant evidence, including knives, was found. The suspect remains silent and uncooperative with the authorities, while investigations continue intensively. Witnesses indicate that he may have confessed his actions to those around him. Additionally, his movements and the testimonies of people near the crime scene are under examination.

A new Alpha Mega supermarket will be built in Engomi at a cost of 50 million euros. The project includes shops, offices, restaurants, and other infrastructures, expected to create around 140 jobs. Measures for environmental management have been considered, with construction expected to last 24 months. The supermarket's operation is anticipated to attract approximately 13,000 visitors daily.

Citizens aged 50-74 are invited to participate in a screening program for colorectal cancer. If the first test result is negative, they will receive an invitation every two years. The process involves collecting stool samples and sending them to a microbiology laboratory for testing. If the result is positive, further actions will be taken to investigate the condition.

Cyprus recorded the second highest electricity prices in the EU for the second half of 2024, relative to consumers' purchasing power. The only country with higher household prices was the Czech Republic. Despite stable average prices across the EU, Cyprus faces challenges regarding energy costs. The increase in taxes on electricity prices continues to affect consumers.

A 76-year-old man admitted to the sexual abuse of a 6-year-old girl, facing 10 charges against him. The abuse occurred over the past two years during his visits to Cyprus. The case was revealed after a specific incident noted by the mother and her partner. The accused is currently in custody awaiting sentencing.

David Quammen warns about the H5N1 bird flu virus, which could be responsible for a new pandemic. His concerns are heightened following a confirmed case in a sheep and the virus's spread in the U.S. Despite the CDC's current assessment of low transmission risk, experts remain cautious due to the potential for genetic recombination. Governments are urged to enhance biosecurity measures.

The President announced proposals for flexible working arrangements in the Public Service, to be discussed before the end of May. The regulations include reduced hours for parents and individuals with disabilities. Additionally, there is an extension of flexible working hours and the implementation of remote work. The aim is to improve the functionality of the Public Service and better serve citizens.

Friedrich Merz, the leader of the German conservatives, failed to be elected Chancellor in the first Bundestag vote, receiving 310 votes out of 621 participants. At least 316 votes are needed for an absolute majority. This failure raises doubts about the cohesion of the new government coalition with the Social Democrats. The Bundestag has 14 days to elect a new Chancellor.

The report from the Auditor General reveals that the Ministry of Education employs a fragmented approach in their calls for technical works, which leads to higher costs and limited choices. In several cases, inspections of the projects were conducted after their acceptance, with significant cost overruns. There is a noticeable lack of competition as often only one bid is submitted. The findings indicate that this method does not allow for optimized spending and presents financial risks.

The police in Paphos are investigating an assault case involving an 81-year-old woman and her 63-year-old daughter. An 18-year-old is being sought in connection with the attack, which resulted in severe injuries to the elderly woman. After receiving medical treatment at the Paphos General Hospital, a warrant for the suspect's arrest was issued. Preliminary investigations suggest that there was a prior altercation between those involved.

The Patichis Foundation will establish student dormitories in Larnaca to address the needs of the new TEPAK university and Greek universities. Mayor Andreas Vyras announced that a decision has been made to start a feasibility study. The dormitories will accommodate students who will commute to their universities by bus. The School of Marine Sciences at TEPAK is expected to welcome students in the autumn of 2027.

Europe is facing serious shortages of radiopharmaceuticals, putting the diagnosis and treatment of cancer patients at risk. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has issued new recommendations highlighting the need to strengthen domestic production. These shortages are attributed to limited production capacity and reliance on third countries. The EMA is urging member states to take action to meet patient needs.

As of April 1, 2025, a 5% penalty is applied to specialists who exceed the request limit for long-term referrals. This decision by the Health Insurance Organization came after data analysis showed many specialist visits were unnecessary. Specialists will be evaluated quarterly, potentially facing reductions in their reimbursements. The goal is to improve the use of referrals and reduce unnecessary consultations.

Former police officers are claiming they face threats from organized crime and that their applications for firearm licenses are being denied. They explain that the current leadership's policies show a neglect of their personal circumstances, as many have served in critical positions. They mention having received threats to their lives, which they feel is not being acknowledged. As they point out, these decisions leave them vulnerable to dangers.

Today, significant testimonies from four former officials of the Department of Road Transport regarding dangerous Takata airbags are expected. The witnesses are called to explain their actions or omissions during their tenure. These testimonies will contribute to the investigation of responsibilities within the Ministry of Transport. The current head of the Department, George Loukas, mentioned serious issues in informing vehicle owners from third countries.

The Social Insurance Fund reported a 12.2% increase in its investments in 2024, reaching €11.90 billion. These deposits are considered a government liability and are not counted as public debt. Despite promises for changes in investment policy, little has changed. The report emphasizes the need for the government to repay its debt to the Fund to maintain a real reserve.

Ersin Tatar does not seek progress on the Cyprus issue, preferring to maintain the deadlock. During yesterday's meeting with President Christodoulides, he refused to discuss previously agreed proposals. The President mentioned negative responses regarding issues related to checkpoints and the processed water. Tatar also insisted on addressing the issue of usurpers, requesting intervention from the UN.