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  • George gavriel — Explosive Attack Targets Painter George Gavriel Amidst Art Censorship Controversy

    George gavriel — Explosive Attack Targets Painter George Gavriel Amidst Art Censorship Controversy

    george gavriel — The home of painter George Gavriel was the target of an explosive attack late Thursday afternoon, 18 December, following a week of political targeting and death threats over his latest art exhibition.

    According to Dialogos, the incident occurred in the village of Kokkinotrimithia while Gavriel was at home with his wife, children, and grandchildren. Witnesses reported hearing two motorcycles approach just before the explosions, which caused damage to the balcony of the house. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the family was left traumatised by the event.

    In response to the attack, police cordoned off the scene in Kokkinotrimithia and began a forensic examination of explosive residues. Investigators are also reviewing CCTV footage from the surrounding area in an effort to identify the two motorcyclists involved.

    The assault on Gavriel’s home marks a troubling escalation of hostility that has been brewing over his artwork. This surge in aggression followed the abrupt cancellation of his exhibition, Antisystemic Art, at the Blue Iris Gallery in Paphos just days earlier. The gallery’s owner faced multiple death threats and warnings of property destruction unless the provocative pieces—which include depictions of religious and political figures—were removed.

    Political tensions surrounding Gavriel have intensified, particularly after Efthymios Diplaros, the Deputy President of DISY, shared a collage of the artist’s work on social media, labelling it “crude blasphemy.” In response, Gavriel accused Diplaros of spreading “fake news” through a doctored image intended to incite public anger. The far-right ELAM party has since requested that the Police Chief initiate criminal proceedings against Gavriel for allegedly “insulting the Orthodox faith.”

    This isn’t the first time Gavriel has faced scrutiny for his artistic expressions. In 2021, a disciplinary probe against him was dropped by the Law Office, which concluded that his work did not violate his professional duties as a secondary school principal. However, this latest violent incident is likely to reignite discussions about the state’s duty to safeguard artists from extrajudicial threats and intimidation.

  • Mia Milia Wastewater Treatment Project Gains Momentum Amid Water Crisis

    Mia Milia Wastewater Treatment Project Gains Momentum Amid Water Crisis

    The Mia Milia wastewater treatment project has resurfaced as a vital solution to Cyprus’ escalating water shortages. Following a trilateral meeting involving President Nikos Christodoulides, Tufan Erhurman, and UN Secretary General envoy Maria Angela Holguin, discussions have rekindled commitments that had remained stagnant for years.

    Mia milia: Political Will to Move Forward

    Dr Michael Loizidis, a member of the bicommunal technical committee on the environment, shared insights with the Cyprus Mail, stating that recent talks have revitalised political commitments towards the project. Although no final contractual agreement has been established yet, both sides have shown a practical commitment to advancing the initiative.

    Current Status and Historical Context

    The Mia Milia plant, located in northern Nicosia, processes approximately 12 million tonnes of wastewater annually. Dr Loizidis noted that this volume is sufficient to alleviate pressure on local water supplies and satisfy a significant portion of Nicosia’s irrigation requirements. Despite being operational since 2013, treated water has largely gone unused for over a decade due to political reasons.

    “For purely political reasons, this water has been discarded year after year,” Loizidis explained, highlighting the urgency of the situation. According to a 2011 agreement, 70 per cent of the treated water was designated for the Republic, with the remaining 30 per cent allocated to the north. Instead, much of the effluent has been discharged into the Pedeos river that divides the city.

    Finances and Infrastructure Challenges

    Loizidis pointed out that Greek Cypriots are already contributing financially to the Mia Milia project under the existing water distribution agreement, emphasising that the current discussions are merely about fulfilling long-standing commitments. He traced the origins of the project back to sewage cooperation agreements established around 50 years ago by former Nicosia mayors, Lellos Demetriades and Mustafa Akinci.

    Mia Milia stands as one of the most significant confidence-building measures agreed upon by both communities, and Loizidis urged that the time has come to implement the agreement. “We are effectively in breach of this agreement by not implementing what was agreed. Now is the opportunity to finally put all the parts together,” he remarked.

    Technical Feasibility and Next Steps

    The main impediments to the project are no longer political but technical. The plant operates efficiently and employs advanced membrane technology, producing water suitable for agricultural use. Approximately 80 per cent of the sewage treated originates from the Greek Cypriot side of Nicosia.

    However, additional infrastructure remains to be constructed, notably two new reservoirs in Potamia and Athienou. These reservoirs represent the most substantial technical hurdle, with costs expected to reach several million euros. Treated water would need to be transported through about 10 kilometres of pipelines to the existing Vathia Gonia facility near Potamia.

    The total cost of the piping and associated works on both sides is estimated to be between 15 and 20 million euros. The project is financed by the EU, which is also anticipated to support infrastructure works up to the connection point in the north.

    Potential Impact and Environmental Considerations

    If approvals are granted and construction begins swiftly, Loizidis anticipates that implementation could be completed within a year. This would enable treated water to reach Potamia, Athienou, and parts of western Nicosia, benefiting farmers and addressing discrepancies in water availability.

    Concerns regarding salinity in the water supplies and potential harm to soil quality have been dismissed by Loizidis as unlikely. “I cannot imagine this ever becoming a problem,” he stated, noting that water quality is regularly monitored on both sides and must adhere to strict agricultural and chemical standards.

    Urgency for Action

    Loizidis expressed a strong desire for the lost decade to be rectified swiftly. “For years this issue was pushed aside; it wasn’t perceived as a priority,” he said. “Now, in light of shortages and droughts, it is impossible to ignore. This project can deliver real benefits if we finally move from words to action.”

  • Christmas parcels — Christmas parcels: Limassol Distributes 350 Christmas Love Parcels to Families in Need

    Christmas parcels — Christmas parcels: Limassol Distributes 350 Christmas Love Parcels to Families in Need

    christmas parcels — christmas parcels — Limassol municipality is spreading festive cheer by distributing 350 Christmas love parcels to families facing financial difficulties. This initiative, organised by the municipality’s Social Grocery Stores, commenced at 10.30am on Thursday and aims to provide essential supplies during the holiday season.

    The handout was attended by Limassol Mayor Yiannis Armeftis and Athena Spyrou, the president of the municipality’s social welfare committee. Mayor Armeftis announced that 200 of the parcels have been allocated for registered beneficiaries of the Social Grocery Store, while the remaining parcels will reach other individuals and families in need.

    Armeftis expressed gratitude to the companies that donated products, highlighting the importance of community support during these challenging times. “The existence of this grocery store is essential because needs exist,” he stated, assuring that Limassol’s Social Grocery Store will continue its operations for as long as necessary.

    Athena Spyrou elaborated on the contents of the parcels, which extend beyond just basic necessities. Each parcel includes sweets, festive treats, fresh meat, supermarket vouchers, and even toys for children. “Each parcel is worth more than €30, and we believe every household will be significantly supported,” she mentioned.

    Moreover, specialised parcels have been prepared for specific cases, catering to larger families or individuals with diabetes. Spyrou noted, “We improve every time and become more targeted towards those in need,” and expressed hope that one day, Social Grocery Stores will no longer be necessary. “But for as long as they are needed, we will be here,” she promised.

  • Prison overcrowding — Justice Minister Addresses Prison Overcrowding but Rules Out New Facility

    Prison overcrowding — Justice Minister Addresses Prison Overcrowding but Rules Out New Facility

    prison overcrowding — prison overcrowding — The new justice minister has pledged to tackle the pressing issue of overcrowding at the central prisons complex, although he has ruled out the immediate construction of a new facility.

    On Thursday, Constantinos Fitiris convened his first meeting with representatives from the police’s Isotita trade union, which advocates for prison wardens. During this meeting, he expressed commitment to addressing the challenges faced by the corrections department.

    In a statement released by Isotita following the discussions, the minister acknowledged the inadequacy of the current prison premises, remarking that “a facility built in 1890 cannot be converted into a modern one.” His comments underline the urgent need for reform in response to the outdated infrastructure.

    While Fitiris confirmed that a new facility is not “in an immediate trajectory of implementation,” he assured the union that there would be significant developments, which they would learn about “from the results.” This assurance comes amidst growing concerns over the conditions within the current facilities.

    One of the immediate issues raised during the meeting was the severe understaffing at the prisons. Fitiris promised that the ministry would announce vacancies for the hiring of 90 new prison wardens in the coming days, a move welcomed by the Isotita union. However, they emphasised that this should be merely a starting point and called for an organisational restructuring that aligns with international standards. They proposed a guideline ensuring a minimum of one warden for every 15 inmates.

    The discussion also touched upon safety measures within the prison system. The leadership of the ministry agreed to establish a rapid response and containment team that would conduct surprise inspections and manage any violent outbreaks among inmates.

    In addition to addressing staffing issues, Isotita proposed alternative measures to alleviate the overcrowding crisis. These include alternatives to incarceration, such as community service or placing inmates under house arrest with electronic monitoring. Such initiatives could potentially reduce the number of individuals held in the already strained prison system.

    Union representatives reiterated their call for allowing wardens to retire voluntarily after 25 years of service, citing the stressful nature of the job as a significant concern. This request highlights the toll that working under such conditions takes on the staff.

    The urgency of reform in Cyprus’ prison system is further underscored by a recent report from the Council of Europe’s committee for the prevention of torture, which raised alarms about “serious problems” within the central prisons. The committee expressed “grave concerns” over the high levels of inter-prisoner violence, a situation that has only been exacerbated by the overcrowded conditions.

    This report follows a tragic incident where a 35-year-old Egyptian national was killed during a violent altercation with another inmate, drawing attention to the dire need for immediate action and systemic reform.

  • Turkey sanctions: Cyprus President Presents Evidence of Turkey’s Sanctions Violations to EU

    Turkey sanctions: Cyprus President Presents Evidence of Turkey’s Sanctions Violations to EU

    turkey sanctions — turkey sanctions — Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides will present evidence of Turkey’s involvement in violations of sanctions against Russia during Thursday’s European Council session. This meeting is pivotal as it is the last before Cyprus takes over the EU Presidency on 1 January.

    Turkey sanctions: Focus on Supporting Ukraine

    Christodoulides intends to share specific data with other EU leaders that indicates breaches of European sanctions by Turkey. This follows a similar presentation made during his recent visit to Ukraine, where he met with President Volodymyr Zelensky.

    Upcoming Discussions on Financial Support

    One of the key topics at the Council will be Ukraine’s financial support for the 2026-27 period. Leaders aim to reach a consensus among the 27 member states, although Hungary has expressed reservations about the idea of common borrowing. The agenda includes discussions on utilising frozen Russian Central Bank assets to facilitate a compensation loan.

    Sanctions and Strategic Objectives

    The renewal of sanctions against Russia will ensure that Russian assets remain frozen until compensation is arranged for Ukraine. This strategy aims to alleviate the financial burden on EU member states while maintaining pressure on Russia to cease its military actions.

    Political Dynamics and Enlargement Discussions

    The upcoming session is also expected to address the EU’s enlargement, particularly concerning the Western Balkans, Ukraine, Moldova, and Turkey. Cyprus is keen on sending strong messages regarding its ongoing issues, especially with Turkey, and is committed to collaborating with the UN to support resolution efforts.

    Addressing Geo-Economic Challenges

    Christodoulides’ agenda will also touch upon the EU’s economic resilience in light of pressures from global powers like China and the United States. The discussions will focus on reducing dependence on external entities while enhancing the EU’s competitiveness and strategic autonomy.

    Multiannual Financial Framework Negotiations

    Another critical topic will be the draft of the Negotiating Box for the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2028-2034. Member states aim for a political agreement by the end of 2026, as the MFF represents a significant priority for the upcoming Cyprus Presidency. The discussions will address various funding allocations, including support for Ukraine and the role of the Common Agricultural Policy.

    Diverging Views Among Member States

    Significant differences remain among member states regarding budget architecture and prioritisation. The proposed new MFF, amounting to €2 trillion, aims to redefine how the EU supports its initiatives, particularly with regards to security and economic stability.

  • Larnaca School Pupils Face Consequences for Nazi Salutes

    Larnaca School Pupils Face Consequences for Nazi Salutes

    Pupils at Vergina Lyceum in Larnaca face penalties after the Ministry of Education launched an investigation into disturbing photos showing them performing Nazi salutes and drawing swastikas in their school environment.

    According to Giorgos Koutsides, deputy director of Secondary Education, the ministry was informed of the situation yesterday, and steps are being taken to address it. “It was a reckless action by the pupils. The director said he knows who they are and will call them to his office to impose penalties,” Koutsides stated.

    These actions, including the posting of images on social media, have raised serious concerns among the community. The final-year students reportedly created social media accounts to disseminate Nazi ideology, including an Instagram account named “Verginazi,” which has drawn attention for its troubling content.

    Complaints from various sources indicate that the pupils not only performed Nazi salutes but also defaced school property with swastikas. In one alarming incident, they altered a sign placed by activists, originally aimed at honouring a Jewish tree-planting event, by erasing the word “children” and replacing it with a Nazi symbol.

    Koutsides confirmed that the posts reflect personal publications by the pupils made on different occasions. When asked whether the Ministry of Education would intervene for educational purposes, he affirmed that the ministry’s provincial officer will visit the school to assess the situation. “We will see if it’s an isolated incident,” he added.

    Kostas Kosta, president of the organised parents association in the Larnaca district, expressed his dismay at the behaviour of the pupils. “As parents, we are clear and consider these incidents unthinkable. Anything that refers to the Nazi past and particularly symbols connected to the murder of millions of people, we condemn,” Kosta said.

    He further emphasised, “Ideologies of hatred have no place in schools,” urging the Ministry of Education to take decisive action. The parents’ association is keen to ensure that such ideologies do not find a foothold in educational environments.

    The political party AKEL Larnaca also condemned the actions of the students, stating that these incidents cannot be dismissed as mere bravado. In a statement, they labelled the actions as manifestations of a dangerous intolerant ideology that has no place in schools or society. They called for an immediate and thorough investigation, insisting on substantial measures from the Ministry of Education and the school administration.

    AKEL stressed the importance of teaching respect and denouncing hatred in schools, asserting, “Fascism and Nazism have no place in education, youth, and democracy.” The events at Vergina Lyceum have sparked a broader conversation about the responsibilities of educational institutions in countering extremist ideologies.

  • Defence cooperation: Defence Minister Clarifies Cyprus-Greece-Israel Cooperation Talks

    Defence cooperation: Defence Minister Clarifies Cyprus-Greece-Israel Cooperation Talks

    Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas has confirmed that discussions regarding a Cyprus-Greece-Israel defence cooperation initiative have not taken place. This statement follows reports in Greek media suggesting that high-ranking military officials from the three nations were in talks about forming a rapid reaction force aimed at countering Turkey’s military presence in the Eastern Mediterranean.

    • Officials have made it clear that any procurement will take into account repair, maintenance, and transport costs to ensure economic efficiency and long-term sustainability.

    Palmas addressed these claims in an interview with philenews, emphasising that any such initiative would depend on significant political decisions rather than merely military consultations. He underlined the importance of the matter but stated it is premature to speculate whether a trilateral defence formation will materialise in the future.

    The relationships between Cyprus, Greece, and Israel are currently at a high point, according to Palmas. He noted that during his recent visit to Israel, where he met with the Israeli Defence Minister, the potential defence cooperation was not a topic of discussion.

    Amidst these diplomatic considerations, Palmas provided updates on military infrastructure developments within Cyprus. He indicated that upgrades to the Evangelos Florakis Naval Base in Mari and the Andreas Papandreou Air Base in Paphos are currently underway. These enhancements are part of a broader strategy to strengthen the operational capabilities of the National Guard.

    Palmas revealed that the United States has begun architectural and technical plans for the upgrade of the Paphos Air Base, which is expected to bolster Cyprus’s military infrastructure significantly. The decision to enhance the Mari Naval Base was solidified following the signing of the Cyprus-France Strategic Declaration in Paris, marking a pivotal moment for Cyprus’s role in the region.

    The planned naval infrastructure aims to be capable of hosting warships, with architectural and technical plans anticipated to be completed by 2026, leading to substantial construction work starting in 2027.

    In terms of military equipment, Palmas mentioned that the Defence Ministry and National Guard General Staff are prioritising the acquisition of surplus American military equipment. Cyprus is preparing to send a delegation to the US to explore various weapons systems suited for its needs. Among the equipment under consideration are American armoured personnel carriers and potentially Bradley-type vehicles.

    Officials have made it clear that any procurement will take into account repair, maintenance, and transport costs to ensure economic efficiency and long-term sustainability.

  • Larnaca Students Spark Outrage with Nazi Symbols and Salutes

    Larnaca Students Spark Outrage with Nazi Symbols and Salutes

    nazi symbols — nazi symbols — Final-year pupils at Vergina Lyceum in Larnaca have ignited controversy after posting images of themselves performing Nazi salutes and drawing swastikas within their school premises. This alarming behaviour has prompted urgent calls for intervention from the Ministry of Education.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    • In response to the uproar, the Ministry of Education has begun to investigate the matter, with officials indicating a commitment to addressing the troubling behaviour exhibited by the students.

    The pupils have reportedly been involved in organising and recruiting fellow students for some time, as indicated by multiple complaints received by philenews. They have created social media accounts, including an Instagram page named “Verginazi”, where they disseminate Nazi-related material and exhibit their troubling actions.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    One particularly disturbing incident involved a photograph showing students holding a modified sign that originally read “Gaza Children Street”. This sign was part of a protest by activists against a tree planting event proposed by the Jewish Community of Cyprus, which was intended to honour Donald Trump for the liberation of Israeli hostages in Gaza. The students not only erased the word “children” from the sign but also defaced it with a Nazi symbol.

    Kostas Kosta, president of the organised parents association in Larnaca district, expressed deep concern over the incident. He stated, “We as parents are clear and consider these incidents unthinkable. Anything that refers to the Nazi past and particularly symbols connected to the murder of millions of people, we condemn. Ideologies of hatred have no place in schools.” His remarks underscore the urgent need for educational authorities to tackle the issue head-on.

    In response to the uproar, the Ministry of Education has begun to investigate the matter, with officials indicating a commitment to addressing the troubling behaviour exhibited by the students.

    The actions of these pupils have raised significant alarm among parents and educators alike, highlighting a disturbing trend that raises questions about the values being instilled in schools. With increasing scrutiny from the community, the hope is that decisive action will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.

  • Arson attack — Targeted Arson Attack on Limassol Wine Shop Linked to Stavros Demosthenous

    Arson attack — Targeted Arson Attack on Limassol Wine Shop Linked to Stavros Demosthenous

    arson attack — A targeted arson attack on a wine shop in Germasogeia has raised alarms, particularly as this incident is connected to a foreign businessman closely associated with the late Stavros Demosthenous. The attack occurred around 03:40 on Thursday, 18 December, at a location on Georgiou Avenue.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    According to police reports, an unidentified individual approached the shop’s entrance and used a flammable liquid to set it ablaze. Fortunately, the Fire Service responded swiftly, extinguishing the fire before it could cause extensive damage to the interior of the establishment.

    This incident follows a troubling pattern, as it marks the second criminal act against the same businessman in just three weeks. On 27 November, four luxury vehicles, valued at hundreds of thousands of euros, were destroyed in a private parking area in Mouttagiaka. The targeted nature of these attacks has led investigators to believe they may be linked to underworld pressures, possibly involving demands for protection money or disputes related to business dealings.

    The businessman is known to have had ties to Stavros Demosthenous, who was assassinated on 17 October 2025. Demosthenous, a prominent figure and former president of Karmiotissa FC, was murdered in what authorities have described as a professional hit.

    In response to the arson, the scene has been cordoned off, with forensic experts from the Limassol Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and the Fire Service conducting a thorough examination. Although no injuries were reported, the fire caused visible damage to the shop’s glass facade and entrance.

    Detectives are currently reviewing CCTV footage from Georgiou Avenue and neighbouring businesses to track the movements of the perpetrator. Forensic samples of the flammable liquid used in the attack are also being analysed. Later today, the owner of the wine shop is expected to provide a statement at the CID offices.

    The Law Office has been kept in the loop regarding this investigation, which is still active concerning the assassination of Demosthenous. Authorities are exploring the possibility that this wave of arson is a direct continuation of the conflicts surrounding Demosthenous’s murder, which has already led to arrests in both Greece and Cyprus.

  • Cyprus Set for Unseasonably Warm Weather This Weekend

    Cyprus Set for Unseasonably Warm Weather This Weekend

    unseasonably warm — Cyprus will experience unseasonably warm weather over the coming days, with temperatures remaining above averages despite a slight increase in cloud cover and potential isolated showers by Sunday.

    Unseasonably warm: Clear Skies Ahead

    Forecasters predict that Thursday will be mainly clear, though periods of locally increased cloud are expected. Winds will blow from the southwest to northwest, starting as light to moderate at three to four Beaufort, before strengthening to five Beaufort in windward coastal areas by the afternoon.

    The sea conditions are forecast to be smooth to slight, making it a pleasant time for those looking to enjoy maritime activities.

    Temperatures to Soar

    On Thursday, daytime temperatures will reach highs that are significantly warm for late December, specifically:

    • 19°C in the interior.
    • 21°C in coastal regions.
    • 9°C in the higher mountain peaks.

    Weekend Weather Outlook

    The stable weather pattern is expected to continue through Friday and Saturday, characterised by mostly clear skies and occasional cloud patches. However, a slight shift in the atmosphere on Sunday may bring isolated rain, primarily concentrated in the mountainous interior.

    Despite the cloudier intervals, temperatures throughout the weekend are forecast to hold steady at their current levels, ensuring that residents and visitors alike can continue to enjoy the mild conditions.