5 Minute News

last month

U.S. President Donald Trump expressed discontent over the Israeli strike on a hospital in Gaza, which killed at least 20 people, including five journalists. Germany expressed shock and called for an investigation, while French President Macron deemed the attack unacceptable and called for the protection of civilians and journalists. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the air strikes and demanded a prompt and impartial investigation. There are growing concerns for the safety of civilians and media during ongoing conflicts.

The electrical interconnection between Greece and Cyprus will continue normally, as stated by Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis. He emphasized that the project is protected by International Law and cannot be obstructed. If there are reactions from Turkey, Greece is prepared to protect its sovereign rights. Additionally, he highlighted the improvement of Greece's geopolitical position in the Mediterranean compared to the past. The government aims to strengthen its diplomatic presence and document its maritime zones.

The Panhellenic Association of Fans of APOEL takes responsibility for a banner displayed by its supporters during a match. The banner labeled MEP Feidias Panagiotou as 'Shame of Cyprus'. The association calls on the police to arrest them in Machaira and criticizes authorities for failing to address serious social issues. They express their opposition to anyone they consider a traitor. The statement ends by demanding the rise of the Machaira's Stauroteus.

The British Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, expressed his shock at the bombing of the Nasser Hospital in Gaza, which killed at least 20 people, including five journalists. He called for an immediate ceasefire and the protection of civilians and healthcare workers. The Israeli military admitted to striking the area and stated that an investigation will be conducted. The World Health Organization condemned attacks on healthcare facilities and demanded an immediate halt to such actions. The international community is criticized for its inaction regarding the situation in Gaza.

Nikoletta Tsikkini reported receiving threats from a member of the police who works for the Cypriot Intelligence Service. Her lawyer, Alekos Argirou, submitted the complaint to the President of the Parliamentary Human Rights Committee, Irini Charalambidou. The incident occurred on August 19, 2025, where the police member allegedly threatened Tsikkini due to her public comment on social media. The letter states that this member of the intelligence service is monitoring citizens who criticize the President of the Republic. This situation raises concerns about democratic freedoms.

The Game and Fauna Service deemed the assessment of the first day of the hunting season positive. No serious incidents were recorded, though two hunters faced legal complaints. One hunter was found hunting in a prohibited area, while another had his gun assembled in his car. Additionally, there was one reported injury to a civilian from a gunshot fired by a hunter. It is estimated that around 18,000 to 19,000 hunters participated in the outing.

The Israeli army admitted to attacking the Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, resulting in at least 20 deaths, including five journalists. This attack was condemned by the UN Human Rights Office as a serious violation of international law. The Israeli government claims that a specific journalist, alleged to be the head of a terrorist cell, was targeted. However, the circumstances of the attack remain unclear. The international community is concerned about the implications of so many journalists being lost during wartime.

The police are investigating a burglary at the Monastery of Abbacum in Fterikoudi. Members of the church committee discovered that a door had been broken and the area was in disarray. An immediate report was made to the police, who rushed to the scene. It is currently being investigated whether any items were stolen from the monastery. The investigations are being conducted by the Nicosia CID.

The President of the Cypriot Parliament, Annita Demetriou, sent a letter to European officials regarding the arrest of five Greek Cypriots in the occupied areas. She emphasized that these actions undermine the prospects for the resumption of negotiations over the Cyprus issue. She condemned the arrests as a premeditated political act of retaliation by Turkey. Demetriou urged the EU to take action for the release of the Greek Cypriots. She pointed out that these developments do not foster the trust needed for negotiations.

The union 'EQUALITY' highlights the increasing violence against police officers, reporting seven incidents in just five days. The incidents include attacks on officers while performing their duties. Police emphasize the need for more resources and personnel on the front lines. They also point out the uncertainty and danger of their work. The union condemns the lack of recognition for police work by society.

The family of Giorgos Mazonakis clarified that his sister Vasso is not involved in his involuntary commitment to Dromokaiteio. Instead, the application was signed by his mother and another sister, with the father's agreement. The family emphasizes that Giorgos's health and safety are their priority. However, Giorgos accuses Vasso of financial disputes. They ask not to unjustly target her in this process.

There is unrest within EDEK, marked by conflicting statements about whether MP Andreas Apostolou has resigned from the party. Party president Nikos Anastasiou denied Apostolou's claims, stating he received a resignation letter from Diomidis Diomidous. Conversely, Apostolou asserts he is effectively out of the party due to actions taken by the leadership. EDEK countered by stating that Apostolou voluntarily resigned and urged him to submit his resignation as an MP. The situation appears tense and requires communication between the parties involved.

Transport Minister Alexis Vafeedis stated that there is a shared desire to construct the Deneia – Astromeritis highway. This road is seen as crucial for combating urban migration in mountainous regions. The Minister emphasized the importance of consensus and further meetings with village leaders who have concerns. The government aims to proceed quickly with the project, stressing that without this road, the mountainous areas of Nicosia are at risk of desolation. The construction of the road will help boost the economy of these communities.

The Larnaca Police is investigating a derogatory banner raised by APOEL fans during a football match. The banner insulted MEP Feidias PanaGiotou, and authorities are looking into how it got into the stadium despite entry checks. Police inquiries include reviewing CCTV footage to identify those responsible. APOEL responded that the authorities should focus on more serious issues rather than the reactions of their fans. The situation has sparked strong reactions throughout Cyprus.

19-year-old Christos Christakis, a national guard, died from a severe head injury after falling from a friend's car. His funeral will take place at the Church of Apostle Lucas in Aradippou, where the family has requested attendees to wear white and make donations for their support instead of sending wreaths. The Municipality of Aradippou expressed its sorrow and canceled an upcoming event out of respect. The incident is under investigation, with the deceased's friend being arrested for causing bodily harm.

The review authority suspended the execution of the Paphos – Polis Chrysochous road project following a request from the company AKTOR. AKTOR sought temporary measures to block the new contract bidding process that the government had canceled. They argue that the bidding terms do not ensure transparency and healthy competition. They also emphasize the importance of safeguarding public interest and avoiding waste of public funds. The situation remains uncertain, with the road project still in planning without a clear path to implementation.

Today, the lawyer for judge Doria Varosiotou raised a preliminary issue before the Supreme Constitutional Court Council. The lawyer questioned the eligibility of the court members, noting that they had already expressed opinions on unresolved issues. The court president, Antonis Liatsos, acknowledged that members of the Supreme Transitional Court were involved in the proceedings. The lawyer emphasized that the appointment process was not properly followed. The court adjourned to consider the preliminary issue.

Today, the proceedings begin at the Supreme Constitutional Court regarding the objection filed by Doria Varotsioti related to the termination of her appointment as a district judge. Ms. Varotsioti was temporarily appointed in July but the Supreme Judicial Council decided against making her appointment permanent. Her request for reinstatement was also rejected. Both parties have submitted written pleadings that are now before the court. Ms. Varotsioti had previously issued a report on the death of National Guardsman Thanasis Nikolaou, concluding that it was a homicide rather than suicide.

Mobile massage services are becoming popular on beaches, raising questions from MP Nikos Kettir about their legality and safety. The Interior Minister noted that there are no set regulations for such services, highlighting gaps in the legislation. Despite the lack of regulations, some municipalities have issued permits for mobile massages. Local authorities are now looking for ways to ensure the quality and legality of these services. The issue also concerns consumer protection and the functioning of tourism businesses.

Cyprus and Greece emphasize a common stance on the situation in Ukraine, focusing on independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. Cyprus' Foreign Minister, Konstantinos Kombos, states that the current situation is complex and requires attention to details. He highlights the need to respect the Ukrainian side regarding decisions affecting them. Additionally, he mentions the dominant role of the USA in managing the issue. Ongoing dialogue continues as efforts for a peaceful resolution to the crisis remain in progress.

Cyprus is recognized as one of the best EU countries for foreign businesses according to an analysis by William Russell. Ten European countries were evaluated using various indicators such as the density of start-ups and investment levels. The United Kingdom ranks first, followed by Sweden. Factors like support for start-ups and the quality of the workforce are crucial for success. The analysis highlights the importance of choosing the right country for business success.

The new school year is expected to bring significant changes to the educational system. Education Minister Athina Michailidou states that a steady redesign has been carried out to improve the quality of education. A central goal is the evaluation of teachers and enhancing the quality of learning conditions. Additionally, there will be a reduction in the curriculum and innovations planned to support students with disabilities. The Minister calls for cooperation to implement these reforms.

Parents can feel reassured when their children go on school trips, as the checks on buses are conducted by the Ministry of Education rather than the Department of Road Transport. The officials check the bus's age, drivers' professional licenses, and the condition of the vehicles. The Minister of Transport notes that supervision by the Department of Road Transport is challenging due to limited staff. Representatives of the Ministry of Education are responsible for checking compliance with specifications on the day of the trip. Additionally, random checks are carried out on buses with special licenses.

The construction of the Deneia - Astromeritis highway is causing strong reactions from local communities. Transport Minister Alexios Vafaiadis will meet with community representatives to discuss the southern route of the road. Communities are requesting immediate advancement of the project and adherence to set timelines. The minister has emphasized the project's importance for the local economy and the retention of the population in mountainous areas. Statistics indicate a significant population decline, which negatively impacts schools and infrastructure.

Starting Monday, patrolling police officers will have tablets that provide them with immediate access to international information systems. These devices will allow for the recognition of individuals and stolen items, making police investigations more efficient. Training for their use has already been completed, and the staff is prepared to utilize them. This new tool is expected to enhance the effectiveness of police checks. This initiative represents a significant step towards modernizing the police force.