Hamas believes that the ceasefire in Gaza has ended and is prepared for military action. They informed the US that the ceasefire must be mutual. They state that Gaza will not become like Lebanon, implying the ongoing Israeli strikes. Following Israeli attacks, reports indicate that five to ten individuals were killed. This situation reflects the escalating tension in the region.
The US is urging Zelensky to accept a peace agreement with Russia. They warn that if Kyiv does not sign now, future terms will be worse. European allies were caught off guard by the US moves, lacking full information. The terms of the agreement involve ceding territory and amnesty for war crimes. Zelensky stated that his country is in a difficult situation, facing a serious dilemma.
At an international defense conference in Nicosia, Israeli company Rafael proposed upgrading the National Guard's BMP-3 vehicles. The proposal includes significant modifications, such as the installation of a remotely operated weapon station. This comes at a time when the National Guard is concerned about the maintenance of its Russian systems. Cyprus has strong bilateral relations with Israel, leaving the door open for future collaborations. However, negotiations for purchasing Merkava tanks have stalled due to recent events.
The police announced that no evidence was found regarding allegations of cat consumption during an investigation at two apartments in Nicosia. They urged citizens to report incidents of animal abuse or mistreatment. Each complaint is taken seriously and investigated responsibly. Claims need to be supported by documented evidence to be considered valid. The welfare of animals is a collective responsibility.
CIC Automasters is recalling 132 vehicles due to defective Takata airbags. Owners are urged to immobilize their vehicles immediately. This recall adds to previous ones announced in October and November 2025. The Department of Road Transport has revoked the suitability certificates for these vehicles. Owners should contact CIC Automasters for further instructions.
On November 22, the District Electoral Conference of AKEL Paphos was held for the upcoming parliamentary elections in 2026. The candidates from AKEL in Paphos were introduced, coming from various professional and social backgrounds. The list includes lawyers, employees of private companies, and active community members. AKEL aims to ensure significant representation in the region ahead of the elections. This process represents a step towards strengthening the party's presence in Paphos.
Cypriot cuisine, featuring traditional dishes like souvla and ofto klefthiko, attracts tourists seeking authentic experiences. Travelers want to immerse themselves in local culture and taste traditional flavors. The Deputy Minister of Tourism, Kostas Koumis, emphasized the importance of gastronomy to our tourism identity. The government plans to enhance the promotion of Cypriot products and culinary culture with increased funding. This strategy aims for sustainable development and the highlighting of the authenticity of Cypriot gastronomy.
The Akel Nicosia-Keryneia District Electoral Conference elected three candidates for the parliamentary elections. The elected candidates are Kostakis Konstantinou, Abraham Louka, and Anastasia Hasikou. These candidates will be confirmed by the Party's Central Committee at the end of the month. The election process was conducted through secret voting. This electoral process is part of Akel's broader strategy for the upcoming elections.
There is good news for patients with dementia and Alzheimer’s, as a scientific review of 6,000 patients shows positive results from the rTMS method. This non-invasive neurostimulation technique appears to improve memory and daily functioning. Dr. George Mikelidis and his team are thoroughly examining the method's effectiveness. rTMS is also applied to other psychiatric conditions and is painless. The method offers hope for effective management of cognitive decline.
A 26-year-old from Paphos, Alexandros Antoniou, succumbed to his injuries following an attack. The young man was in critical condition in a hospital in Limassol. The police have arrested a 58-year-old who is charged with premeditated murder. The arrest took place early this morning, while investigations by the Paphos CID are ongoing. The incident has raised concerns in the local community.
Fitch announced that it has maintained the rating of the Republic of Cyprus at A-, but upgraded the economic outlook from stable to positive. This improvement is attributed to the significant reduction of public debt and ongoing budget surpluses. The growth of the Cypriot economy is projected to reach 3.4% by 2025. Meanwhile, Moody's retained Cyprus's rating at A3. The Minister of Finance emphasized the need for fiscal discipline for future upgrades.
Limassol will host the Cypriot round of the Unicorn Pitches competition, showcasing Cyprus as an innovation hub. Over 300 investors and entrepreneurs will attend the event, providing opportunities for participants. Startups focusing on fields such as artificial intelligence, fintech, and blockchain can apply. The winner will advance to the Unicorn Cup semifinals in San Francisco in 2026. The initiative aims to establish Cyprus as a regional center for innovation.
In the political scene of Cyprus, the parties ELAM, Alma, and the candidacy of Fidia Panayiotou are engaged in intense confrontations. ELAM aims to strike traditional parties and attract anti-establishment votes, while simultaneously responding to accusations from AKEL and Alma. The old political structures appear to be questioned as these new parties seek to gain ground. The dynamics of this confrontation may determine the election outcomes and the composition of the new Parliament. Political dialogue is taking on new dimensions with public disputes and accusations exchanged between the parties.
This year there has been a slight increase in wildfires compared to last year, with damages estimated to exceed €100 million. The severity of the situation is highlighted by the destruction caused by fires in mountainous Limassol, which alone has incurred damages of €61 million. Incidents of fire are up, particularly in April, which saw a remarkable spike. Climate change seems to be influencing the situation, with a significant rise in fires starting as early as January. This year is expected to rank among the worst, if not the worst, for fires in the area.
The relocation of the University of Cyprus's School of Architecture to the old Faneromeni school seems to be cancelled. Rising costs of the project have triggered reactions, with prices skyrocketing from 11 million to over 20 million euros. The university's rector noted that other faculties could use the building if the plan is scrapped. There are concerns about delays and responsibilities of the planners as well. Recent reports indicate pressures to cancel the government's agreement with the Archbishopric.
Scientists are monitoring the spread of the influenza sub-strain 'K', which appears to be affecting many countries. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) issued a statement emphasizing the importance of vaccines, despite concerns about their effectiveness. Flu cases are rising earlier than usual in Europe, with children aged 5-14 being particularly vulnerable. Currently, vaccines seem to provide some protection against severe illness. Experts continue to monitor the situation responsibly.
Orhan Asadov, a 42-year-old Azerbaijani, was sentenced to 6.5 years in prison for conspiracy to murder five individuals, which he admitted to. What initially seemed like a case of terrorism turned into a conspiracy for a criminal act. The court found no evidence of religious motives in its decision. Asadov is expected to be released in 2026, and there may be a possibility of his deportation. The trial was held behind closed doors for national security reasons.
Six individuals are involved in the murder of Stavros Dimosthenous, with the police having gathered crucial testimonies. The 28-year-old A.Z. is alleged to be the executioner, while two others played roles as drivers. Investigations revealed various details about the execution and the movements of the perpetrators post-crime. A.Z. reportedly confessed to his involvement, and their flight raised suspicions. The situation suggests that authorities are nearing a full understanding of the case.