Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has requested a pardon from President Isaac Herzog regarding his ongoing corruption trial. Netanyahu claims that the legal proceedings hinder his ability to govern effectively. Herzog's office described the request as 'unusual' and stated it will be considered seriously. Opposition members reacted negatively, insisting that no pardon should be granted unless he admits guilt. Netanyahu has previously won elections multiple times, but his legal case has been ongoing for five years.
In Koukli, a burglar broke into a house and stole valuable items and money. He used a sharp object to pry open the door while the residents were away. The stolen items included jewelry worth 3,000 euros and 600 euros in cash. The total value of the stolen goods is in the thousands of euros. The police are investigating the incident using the house's surveillance camera.
Rain in Cyprus is expected to continue tonight with storms in some areas. Localized showers will mainly occur tonight in the western and northern regions, with temperatures ranging from 11 to 22 degrees. Tomorrow, fewer showers are expected with generally clear weather during the day. On Tuesday, the weather will be mostly clear, but localized rain may fall in northern and mountainous areas. Temperatures are expected to remain close to the seasonal averages.
A deadly fire at the Wang Fuk Court apartment complex in Hong Kong has resulted in 146 confirmed deaths, with many others still missing. Authorities are investigating the buildings and have found bodies in apartments and on rooftops. There are concerns about potential code violations, leading officials to suspend other construction projects by the involved company. Residents are paying their respects by leaving flowers and notes at the site. This tragedy highlights the need for stricter safety regulations in tall buildings.
Peace talks between the US and Ukraine have begun in Florida. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the goal is to end the war and ensure security guarantees for Ukraine. Rustem Umerov, head of the Ukrainian delegation, expressed hope for productive collaboration. The US and Ukraine are discussing the implementation of a peace plan that includes guarantees against further Russian invasion. The discussions have clear directives and priorities to protect Ukrainian interests.
A 14-year-old was seriously injured in an accident in Athienou. The minor was driving a vehicle that overturned and lost control. He was transported to Larnaca General Hospital, where his health condition was deemed serious. The police are conducting investigations to determine the exact circumstances of the accident. Such incidents highlight the dangers of underage driving.
The case of the murder of 26-year-old Alexandros Antoniou in Konia is gradually being unveiled. The 58-year-old suspect admitted his involvement in the incident, stating that his act was not premeditated. During the hearing, details from the convenience store's CCTV footage were shown, depicting the moment of the attack. Witnesses testified to having heard threats related to the suspect's daughter. The police continue to investigate the case.
A 22-year-old driver has been detained following a fatal car accident that resulted in the death of a 17-year-old girl. The accident occurred in the Kakoratzia area when the driver, who tested positive for alcohol, lost control of the vehicle and overturned. The 17-year-old Alica Nicolaou, sitting in the back seat, succumbed to her injuries. The other passengers sustained minor injuries. This tragedy has deeply affected the local community, and authorities are continuing their investigations.
The interview with the U.S. Ambassador to Turkey, Tom Barak, highlights Washington's role in managing Greek-Turkish relations and the delimitation of maritime zones in the area. Barak emphasized that the U.S. aims to act as a bridge of communication between Greece and Turkey. He referred to the need for stable channels of communication and cooperation between the two countries. His public remarks come during a critical period, with increased interest in developments in the Eastern Mediterranean. The ambassador's emphasis on the importance of institutional communication may pave the way for a new regional order.
The 58-year-old suspect in the murder of 26-year-old Alexandros Antoniou in Konia remains in custody for another 8 days. In court, he claimed that his act was not premeditated and was a result of a bad moment. He reportedly provided information about the location where the knife was found, while his clothes from the incident are still missing. The incident followed an altercation between Alexandros and the father of a girl who had accused him of harassment. Alexandros succumbed to his injuries two days later.
Today, the 22-year-old driver involved in a fatal car crash will appear at the Larnaca District Court. The accident resulted in the death of 17-year-old passenger, Alice Nicolaou, while other passengers suffered minor injuries. The police are investigating the circumstances of the incident, and the driver is in custody for questioning. An alcohol test was conducted, showing a preliminary positive but a negative final result. The driver is suspected of causing death by negligence.
Gunfire occurred at a company building in Nicosia. The police have secured the scene and are investigating the incident, having found shell casings. Investigators are looking into the perpetrators and their motives, while surveillance cameras will aid in the investigation. The incident took place near midnight in the Strovolos area.
The First Lady, Philippa Karseka Christodoulides, emphasizes the significance of the Presidential Palace as a center of hope and culture. Through her initiative 'Cyprus: The World, Place, Word, Material', she aims to highlight the cultural heritage and history of the location. The collection includes works by artists and archaeological exhibits, making the Presidential accessible to the public. It also seeks to connect with foreign visitors and promote cultural diplomacy. This experience is planned to be interactive and educational.
Tensions in Venezuela have escalated following Donald Trump's announcement of closing the airspace over the country. A government aircraft took off from Caracas and approached the border with Brazil, sparking rumors about Nicolás Maduro's potential escape. However, there is no evidence that Maduro was on the aircraft. Brazilian authorities confirmed they have no information about any attempts by the president to flee. Military and political sources indicate that there has been no communication from Maduro to Brazilian officials.
Sandra Parthie, president of the European Economic and Social Committee, discusses the impact of artificial intelligence on the economy and labor. She acknowledges that it can increase productivity and improve efficiency if used strategically. She emphasizes the need for investments in digital infrastructure and education while calling for coordinated actions within the EU. Europe, she claims, should lead in the responsible use of artificial intelligence. Adapting to new conditions is essential for maintaining competitiveness.
The President of Israel, Isaac Herzog, emphasizes the importance of relationships with Cyprus and Greece. He is optimistic about achieving peace in the region, reflecting on the recent situation after the October 7 attacks. He highlights that Israel's relationships with the Abraham Accords nations remain strong despite challenges. Herzog acknowledges that discussing peace is difficult given the circumstances in Gaza. Nevertheless, he stays positive that people can move towards peace.
The political situation in Cyprus is tense, with new political parties emerging as the parliamentary elections approach. Citizens are expressing anger and disappointment towards the political system, leading to anti-systemic attitudes. Odysseas Michailidis, Phidias Panagiotou, and Christoforos Tornaritis are among the new players drawing voter interest. The electoral processes are entering their final stages, with major parties preparing their ballots. The discussion around corruption is influencing the political reshuffles.
The geopolitical situation in the Eastern Mediterranean is tense yet collaborative, as countries form strategic alliances and agreements. The recent agreement on the delimitation of the EEZ between Cyprus and Lebanon highlights the potential for positive developments in the region. Cyprus is moving forward with collaborations to protect its sovereignty and strengthen its position. There are pending issues with Greece and Turkey, with the latter reacting to the actions of Nicosia. The situation remains fluid and requires careful management.
Kazakhstan has opened an embassy in Cyprus after 33 years of diplomatic relations, as highlighted by the country's first permanent ambassador, Nikolai Zhumakanov. The establishment of a permanent embassy will enhance diplomatic and economic cooperation between the two nations. The ambassador notes that Cyprus is an important partner for Kazakhstan within the European Union and other regions. The ambassador's permanent presence will enable more direct and frequent interactions. This move reflects the strategic significance of Cyprus for Kazakhstan.
Banks are facing several challenges in 2026, including the need for investment in technology and improvement in cybersecurity. Customers are expected to benefit from falling interest rates, making both new loans and reductions on older loans more favorable. The European Central Bank (ECB) has lowered interest rates, and expectations for further decreases are limited. Additionally, instant payments are set to become faster and more secure, aiming to streamline daily transactions. This transition is crucial for enhancing the customer experience.
Cypriots have quickly embraced online banking services, with the proportion of users doubling from 2019 to 2024, reaching 80.5%. This increase is the largest in the EU, as most Cypriots have moved away from physical banks. In contrast, some eastern and southern regions of the EU still show low usage of online services. Eurostat reports that electronic banking has become the norm, providing convenience and reducing the need for local branches. These changes are causing significant shifts in the EU's banking sector.