Iran's state television has aired a target list that includes Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other officials. This move is seen as a direct assassination threat, with the host stating that the timing of their death will be determined by Iran. The broadcast comes during a period of heightened tension as negotiations over Iran's nuclear program continue. Netanyahu recently returned from the United States, where he met with President Trump. Concerns are growing regarding the outcome of these discussions.
Nine individuals were arrested in France for fraud related to ticket sales for the Louvre and Versailles, resulting in losses exceeding 10 million euros. Among those arrested are two Louvre employees and tour guides, some of whom allegedly reused the same tickets for different visitors. The investigation began in December 2024 after a report from the museum's management. Authorities have identified significant cash amounts and suspect that the perpetrators invested their profits in real estate. The case involves charges of organized crime and aiding illegal immigration practices.
Parents at the Pediatric Oncology Clinic in Makareio Hospital are raising serious concerns about the living conditions of their children. They report water leaks, dirt falling from the ceiling, and constant noise pollution during the renovation works. While they acknowledge the need for upgrades, they emphasize the lack of preventive safety measures. Parents are demanding immediate and substantial corrective actions to ensure the safety of their children. The safety and well-being of hospitalized children is an absolute priority.
The Administrative Court rejected the request of Paphos mayor Phaidonas Phaidonos to suspend the Interior Minister's decision placing him on leave due to an investigation into a rape allegation. The mayor contested the decision, claiming he was not given the opportunity to be heard before the suspension. The court's ruling stated that suspending the leave would go against the public interest. Police investigations are ongoing and the leave remains in effect. The case involves serious allegations and procedures are still underway.
The Belgian police conducted a raid on the offices of the European Commission in Brussels as part of an investigation into potential irregularities regarding the sale of EU properties valued at 900 million euros. The searches took place in various buildings of the Commission and are linked to former commissioner Johannes Hahn. The investigation is being carried out by the European Public Prosecutor's Office and concerns 23 properties purchased by the Belgian state investment fund in 2024. The European Commission stated that the sale was conducted through a competitive process. The situation remains ongoing, with limited information available.
Two infants were found dead in a freezer in the Haute-Saône region of France. The father discovered one baby and called the police, who later found the second baby. The father's partner has been arrested, and her exact relationship with the deceased children is under investigation. Authorities are looking into the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident. This news has shocked French society.
A two-member delegation from Cyprus is likely to travel to Moscow to meet with Joanna Fortiou, known as Annie Alexui. Justice Minister Costas Fytiris is coordinating with the Foreign Ministry regarding this matter, as Fortiou is still sought by authorities. A criminal investigator and an official from the Ministry of Justice will assess the information that Fortiou possesses. The trip will take place once they receive the green light from Russian authorities. We expect developments soon regarding Fortiou's status in Moscow and the possibility of the investigators visiting her.
The Meteorological Department has issued a yellow warning for rains and thunderstorms affecting the island. This warning will be in effect from the morning of February 13 until the morning of February 14. Thunderstorms may include hail, with total rainfall exceeding 55 millimeters in the western half of the island. The weather will be mostly cloudy, with local rains and increasing wind speeds. Temperatures will range from 6 to 18 degrees Celsius, depending on the area.
Thanasios Tzokos, the General Director of RIK, defended the selection of the song 'JALLA' for Eurovision, emphasizing the organization's experience. He mentioned that artists are chosen through a competitive process involving a special committee. Tzokos stressed that Cyprus will be presented professionally at the competition, regardless of criticism. He also announced plans to create an institution for Cypriot music to support local artists. The cost of participation is covered by RIK's budget and includes both the participation fee and the production of the music video.
In the Parliament, the head of the Ambulance Service, Riana Konstantinou, expressed her disappointment over the delays in improving the service. She pointed out that a decade has passed without significant changes and emphasized the need to address the issues related to ambulance operations. She also spoke about the lack of civil protection policy and the need for more resources and training. The executive director of OΚΥpΥ mentioned that the expenses incurred so far need to be evaluated. The discussion refers to the establishment of a National Ambulance Authority.
Justice Minister Kostas Fytiris stated that there will be a way to deliver the details from Annie Alexui in a legal and safe manner. He acknowledged that the information mentioned cannot be classified as true or false without investigation. He expressed concern about the situation described by Ioanna Fotiou, but emphasized that the police do not disclose all investigations. Regarding the betting company BookieCo, he noted that the non-renewal of its licenses may relate to the allegations against its owner. This action could contribute to the fight against organized crime.
Police investigations in Limassol are focusing on a serious case involving a mother who allegedly gave tranquilizers to her 7-year-old child. The couple was found unconscious by the husband and taken to the hospital, where they were revived. The mother is now hospitalized in a psychiatric facility following a specialist's assessment. The child has been discharged and is in good health. The case is being investigated as an attempted murder against the mother.
A concerning complaint has been made by a family regarding the conditions at Larnaca General Hospital following the death of a 72-year-old patient. The patient, who had COVID-19, had to wait five hours before being seen by a doctor. The relatives noted a chaotic situation in the hospital due to another serious incident that had occurred earlier. Through repeated communications, they were informed that her health condition was fine, only to later learn about her death from heart failure. Questions arise regarding the monitoring and care provided to the patient.
In Nicosia, a 26-year-old motorcyclist was hospitalized after a serious traffic accident. His motorcycle collided with a road divider and overturned. Authorities are investigating the circumstances of the accident. The young man sustained multiple injuries and is in critical condition in intensive care. The traffic department is continuing its inquiries.
Prospective borrowers should conduct market research before choosing a mortgage or business loan. Alpha Bank and Ancoria Bank are in competition for mortgage loans, with Alpha Bank offering the lowest interest rate at 2.71%. It is essential for borrowers to compare different offers and consider the Total Annual Percentage Rate. For business loans under €1 million, National Bank offers the lowest interest rate at 3.02%. The competition for loans over €1 million is more limited, with fewer options for borrowers.
The decision of AKEL to remove Eirini Charalambidou from its parliamentary group triggered controversy. Party leaders Stefanos Stefanou and Giorgos Koukoumas stated that her stance during the presidential elections harmed AKEL's efforts. The leadership seems determined to ensure discipline within the party following this decision. Charalambidou has expressed her desire to continue in politics, possibly with another party. This situation indicates a serious crisis within AKEL.
The number of inmates in the Central Prisons has reached 1,164, while the facility can accommodate only 650-720 individuals. This overcrowding issue has caused dysfunctions in the wings and has burdened the police, which struggles to hold more detainees. There are plans from the Ministry of Justice for the early release of prisoners, with reports indicating that 55% of the inmates are foreigners. A significant number of inmates are incarcerated for drug-related offenses and sexual crimes. The government is considering the construction of a new prison to address the overcrowding problem.
General practitioners are protesting against the current system of purchasing and reimbursing vaccines, which they find burdensome. They argue that this process discourages new doctors from participating due to high costs. Pediatricians emphasize that the lack of incentives and support affects vaccination coverage in Cyprus. They call on the Ministry of Health to reconsider these procedures. The situation is causing dissatisfaction and unrest among physicians.
The Paphos Municipality is facing a new issue with a councilor who is considered to have a conflict of interest. This councilor has held both a public sector position and a councilor position simultaneously. Two ministries have intervened, asking him to choose one of the two positions. Procedures to resolve the issue have already begun, as there are also disciplinary matters concerning his job. The Municipality is waiting for decisions regarding this situation.
The tax reform has increased penalties for various violations, such as not accepting card payments. The administrative fine for not accepting cards has risen to €6,000. There are also increased monetary penalties related to tax declaration submissions and other obligations. These changes aim to reduce tax evasion and ensure public revenue. Additionally, there are provisions for leniency in cases of extended deadlines for tax declarations.
The Republic's Legal Service reviewed the case of Paphos mayor, Phaidonas Phaidonos, regarding interference in judicial proceedings. The Police had suggested prosecution, but delays in sending the case files led to changes in the facts of the case. The charges did not proceed as they were deemed not to serve the public interest. There were two complaints, one in 2021 and another in 2023, regarding alleged illegal actions by the mayor related to the approval of a building permit. The delays and changes in the facts influenced the Legal Service's decision.