5 Minute News

Tufan Erhiyurman is the new leader of the Turkish Cypriot community, winning the illegal elections with 62.76% of the votes. His victory signifies a significant shift as the policies of Ersin Tatar were not well received by the public. Following the announcement of the results, Erhiyurman pledged to govern impartially and invited all citizens to a celebration of brotherhood. He thanked his supporters and expressed his intention to work with everyone for the community's benefit. He also emphasized his commitment to collaborating with Turkey on foreign policy matters.

The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has ended, with the Israeli army launching a new round of attacks in Gaza. The Israeli Defense Minister warned Hamas that they will pay severe consequences for any harm to Israeli soldiers. These attacks were a response to prior strikes against them. The Israeli military is determined to protect its soldiers from any danger. The situation has escalated, and the attacks are expected to continue.

The first round of the illegal elections in the occupied territories is nearing its completion, with voting closing at 18:00. Results are expected approximately two hours after the polls close. A total of 777 polling stations have been set up, with 218,313 eligible voters. There are 7 candidates, with Hussein Gurelek announcing his withdrawal. The Turkish Foreign Minister stated that the only realistic solution to the Cyprus problem is the acceptance of two states.

The police plan to arrest Greek Cypriots related to the murder of Stavros Dimosthenous. There are testimonies implicating two individuals with potential connections to the perpetrators. A 44-year-old suspect has been arrested and is in custody for eight days. He recently sold a high-capacity scooter, and it is unclear if this is related to the case. Police investigations are ongoing, including analyzing data from mobile phones.

Elections are taking place in the occupied territories with 777 polling stations and 218,313 eligible voters. The process is influenced by Turkey and the altered demographics of the Turkish Cypriot community. There are seven candidates, with vote counting expected to be completed electronically. The ratio of Turkish Cypriot voters compared to settlers indicates a slight majority for Turkish Cypriots. It was noted that these elections might be crucial for the future of the community.

Turkey, through Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, is adopting a strategy of pressure and diplomacy against Greece. While highlighting the existing differences in the Aegean issue, he suggests that these can be resolved through dialogue. Fidan emphasized the need for political will in Greece to solve these problems. At the same time, he criticized Greek foreign policy for not representing the security of Europe. George Gerapetritis countered that Greece seeks to maintain peace and good neighborly relations.

Authorities are investigating the murder of Stavros Dimosthenu with the help of surveillance footage. A white van and a motorcycle linked to the crime have been identified. A 44-year-old suspect has been arrested and denies any involvement. The police have collected several statements and are examining the suspect's movements before and after the crime. Investigations continue as evidence is gathered to reveal the perpetrators.

Vladimir Putin demanded from Donald Trump full control of Donetsk to end the war in Ukraine. This area is strategically important and is considered critical for Ukrainian defense. While Trump has expressed a desire for an agreement, he has not publicly commented on Putin's request. There have been proposals for land exchanges, but these seem to be rejected by Kyiv. The situation at the front remains stagnant, with no decisive progress from either side.

The ceasefire in the Gaza Strip remains uncertain as the Israeli military conducted airstrikes in response to attacks by armed individuals in Rafah. The airstrikes came after militants targeted Israeli forces operating in the area. This situation could escalate violence and undermine the fragile ceasefire agreement. The Israeli Defense Forces stated that their response was immediate and targeted. Meanwhile, Hamas continues its military activities despite the existing ceasefire.

Famous Turkish chef Nusret Gökçe, known as 'Salt Bae', is facing serious allegations of sexual harassment and a toxic work environment. Former employees describe the workplace conditions as hostile and exhausting, with strict penalties for minor infractions. The allegations include Gökçe demanding massages from female employees. Rumors surrounding the chef are starting to undermine his public image. Legal actions against him are increasing.

Greece's Foreign Minister, Giorgos Gerapetritis, responded to aggressive remarks from his Turkish counterpart, Hakan Fidan, regarding the SAFE plan. Gerapetritis asserted that Greece pursues an active foreign policy based on international law and will not accept outside interference. Fidan expressed concerns about the rising anti-Turkish sentiment in Greece. The statements from both sides highlight the tension between the countries amidst discussions on security issues. Fidan emphasized the need for Turkey to be brought back into Greece's political agenda.

Human trafficking remains a serious issue in Cyprus, but the Republic has maintained a good standing in the global ranking against trafficking in 2025. The U.S. report indicates that the government is making continuous efforts to combat the crime. In contrast, in the occupied areas, the Turkish Cypriots have not convicted any traffickers in 2024, and their authorities appear to be covering up the situation. The Cyprus Stop Trafficking event highlighted issues of labor exploitation and trafficking in the occupied areas. More action is needed for the protection of victims.

Stavros Dimosthenous was murdered in Limassol, and investigations are ongoing. The police have arrested a 45-year-old Greek Cypriot, the owner of a motorcycle linked to the case. The details surrounding the murder and the perpetrators remain unclear. Results from scientific examinations are expected to shed light on the case. Efforts to apprehend other individuals involved continue.

The Cyprus Real Estate Development Association is promoting the establishment of the Land Development Entrepreneur profession. The regulation aims to enhance transparency and credibility in the real estate market. According to the proposal, a Registration and Control Council will be created to oversee the profession. The changes will define criteria for registering professionals in the sector. The Minister of Interior has expressed a positive stance regarding this proposal.

The Democratic Party (DIKO) is facing significant challenges as polls indicate a drop to single-digit percentages. Nicolas Papadopoulos aims to reorganize the party's ballot by focusing on prominent personalities. His goal is to increase party cohesion, which currently stands at about 50%. Plans are underway to strengthen the ballot with new candidates while seeking votes from the broader centrist space. DIKO aims to maintain its previous election percentages, although competitors are gaining ground.

Blood availability in Cyprus is at critical levels, with needs increasing by 10% over the past year. The president of the Cyprus Thalassemia Association warns that if the blood donation system is not strengthened, patient needs may not be met. The importance of a new strategic communication plan and active participation of schools and communities is emphasized. Continuous notifications for blood donation indicate that a new approach is necessary to attract volunteers. Individuals with Thalassemia rely on blood transfusions, making substantial improvement in the blood donation system critical.

Turkey is attempting to expand its influence in Gaza, leveraging its relationship with Hamas and seeking a role as a guarantor in the region. It is suggested that Erdogan aims to participate in the reconstruction of Gaza and financially benefit from it. The Turkish government has already been involved in other regions such as Ukraine and Libya and wants to broaden its presence in international issues. While Turkey is joining existing players, its actions raise concerns among other states. Ankara's strategy showcases its ambition to become a significant geopolitical player.

The voting for the Turkish Cypriot leadership is expected to influence the prospects for the Cyprus issue. Ersin Tatar and Tufan Erhurman are the main candidates. If Tatar wins, the chances for negotiations appear limited, as he supports a two-state solution. In contrast, the election of Erhurman may introduce a new approach. Nevertheless, Turkey's tactical approach remains crucial.