The Israeli government warned the EU that any sanctions against Israel would trigger an appropriate response. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar described the European Commission's proposals as morally and politically distorted. He emphasized that any action against Israel would receive a corresponding reaction. Analysts believe that these proposals may not be adopted due to the requirement of unanimity among member states. The situation highlights the complex relationship between Israel and the EU.
The position of the Commander of the Presidential Guard is changing, with military officer Andreas Pettemeridis taking over for the first time. This decision is causing discontent within the Police, as individuals involved in the Presidential Guard expected someone from their ranks to be appointed. The previous commander was appointed as Deputy Chief of Police, leaving the position vacant for months. Pettemeridis was chosen based on his experience and training. Similar practices can be seen in other countries, where military personnel assume similar roles.
Bulgaria has confirmed the arrest of a Russian shipowner wanted in Lebanon for his connection to the catastrophic explosion at the Beirut port in 2020. Igor Grechushkin, who holds dual citizenship, was arrested at Sofia Airport and cooperated with authorities during his arrest. This arrest was based on information from Interpol, and Grechushkin will be held for up to 40 days while awaiting documents for his extradition to Lebanon. The explosion had severe consequences, killing at least 218 people and causing billions of dollars in damage.
The Cabinet has appointed Maria Manoli Christofidou as the new Commissioner for the Protection of Personal Data. Her appointment will take effect from September 28, 2025, lasting until September 27, 2031. Ms. Christofidou is an attorney with 20 years of experience, having studied at the University of Sheffield and the University of Leicester. She has held significant roles in various committees and organizations and is an active member of the legal community in Cyprus. This appointment follows the completion of the previous Commissioner's term.
The Cabinet has decided to create a National Mechanism for Civil Protection to improve crisis management. The Civil Defense and fire services will be integrated into the Ministry of Interior, which will be renamed the Ministry of Interior and Civil Protection. The appointment of a National Coordinator will ensure the organization and coordination of all involved services. The planning of national strategies will be updated based on new needs. Climate change highlights the need for better coordination in addressing natural disasters.
The Cabinet has approved a decree for voluntary military enlistment of women in the National Guard. The decision affects classes 2017-2025, with enlistment scheduled for the end of October. The Minister of Defense described the decision as a new era for the National Guard, emphasizing collective responsibility in defense. Women will be able to choose their unit, with service duration ranging from 6 to 14 months. It was noted that the government will consider modifications based on the response to the program.
King Charles III attended the Catholic funeral of the Duchess of Kent, breaking a four-century-old tradition. The Duchess Catherine, who passed away at the age of 92, had a close association with the Wimbledon tennis tournament. Charles became the first British monarch to attend a Catholic funeral, marking a historic moment for the royal family. The ceremony took place at Westminster Cathedral with Prince William and his wife, Kate, in attendance. The funeral and the Duchess's burial at Frogmore are significant events in British monarchy history.
The President of the Republic announced the creation of a new ministry, the Ministry of Interior and Civil Protection. Services related to crisis management will be consolidated under this ministry. This reform aims to enhance civil protection and effective crisis management. The Fire Service, Forest Firefighters, and the Civil Defense Department will now work closely together. This change aims to create a modern and efficient civil protection mechanism in line with international standards.
The Auditor General, Andreas Papaconstantinou, strongly opposes the creation of a three-member Audit Council, labeling it as 'Big Brother.' He argues that this change will paralyze the work of the Service and does not promote transparency. Instead, he suggests that the Council should operate as in other countries, while respecting the independence of the Service. In a confrontation with the Minister of Justice, he highlights that the proposed change is misleading. He stated that the trust of the public in the Audit Service must be preserved.
The conflict that arose after the Greece-Turkey semifinal at Eurobasket ended with a unifying gesture from Giannis Antetokounmpo and Alperen Sengun. The two athletes posted a joint photo, sending messages of mutual respect. Antetokounmpo apologized for his previous comments, while Sengun also expressed regret for a past post. Through these actions, they emphasized that sports should promote unity rather than rivalry. Their joint efforts aim to mend misunderstandings and strengthen friendship between the two nations.
In Strovolos, a group of individuals from India attacked other fellow nationals, causing damage to a residence. The attackers entered the house armed with bats and knives, damaging various items and equipment. They also vandalized motorcycles and a car parked in the yard. One resident was injured and transported to the hospital for treatment. The Nicosia Police are continuing their investigations.
Messages exchanged by Tyler Robinson, the murderer of Charlie Kirk, with his roommate were made public. The messages reveal Robinson's thoughts before and after the murder. Robinson is charged with premeditated murder and other offenses. When his roommate discovered a note indicating Robinson's intentions, their conversation took a chilling turn, detailing Robinson's criminal plans. Robinson attempted to justify his actions and preparations for the crime.
Turkey aims to participate in the European SAFE program, but the EU's safeguards complicate this effort. The NATO Secretary-General has asked member states to consider Turkey's participation positively. However, ongoing threats against Cyprus and Greece create difficulties. Participation requires unanimous approval from all member states, which is uncertain. Greece and Cyprus appear to be exercising veto power in this regard.
The cancellation of net metering is expected by December 2025, causing concern for over 80,000 households in Cyprus. Existing net metering users will continue to benefit until their contracts expire. However, those wishing to install new solar systems must apply by the end of 2025. After this date, applications will only be accepted for net billing, which is less favorable for consumers. The definitive end of net metering is anticipated in 2040.
Many Palestinians are fleeing Gaza due to ongoing bombings and shortages of food and water. Fatima al-Zahra Sawail's family has been displaced 19 times. People walk for hours without basic necessities, with many struggling to afford the rental of trucks or tents. Camps in the south are overcrowded and dangerous, leading some to return to hazardous areas. Many report that there is no truly safe place in the Strip and prefer to stay in the north.
Irene Charalambidou remains active in politics but has not yet decided on her future. Meetings with Stefanos Stefanou are expected to discuss proposals regarding her political career. She wishes to maintain her connection with the Left, despite disagreements with the AKEP leadership. Overall, the atmosphere is positive and options remain open. With the support of the citizens, she wants to stay at the forefront of the political scene.
The Independent Authority Against Corruption is preparing a report on two significant investigations. The first investigation is secret and is expected to create a stir upon disclosure. The second investigation revolves around complaints from MP Christos Christofides and focuses on naturalized citizens. The investigations were complicated and faced delays. The report is expected to be delivered soon.
A coalition of parties is forming to approve the tax reform in parts. Although there was a positive impression during the meeting with the Minister of Finance, some parties have shown differing intentions. DISY, DIKO, and EDEK plan to approve only the provisions regarding tax rates in 2025, leaving anti-tax evasion measures for 2026. The aim is to allow more time for implementation and focus on important tax improvements, such as increasing the tax-free income threshold. The delay in legislative proposals from the Ministry of Finance strengthens this approach.