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  • Territorial dispute — Iran Summons Cypriot Ambassador Amid UAE Territorial Dispute

    Territorial dispute — Iran Summons Cypriot Ambassador Amid UAE Territorial Dispute

    territorial dispute — Iran has summoned the Cypriot ambassador in Tehran, Petros Nacouzis, over a recent territorial dispute involving the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The diplomatic tension arose after the Cypriot government issued a joint declaration with the UAE, recognising three islands in the Persian Gulf as belonging to the UAE.

    Territorial dispute: Formal Protest Issued

    According to the Islamic Republic News Agency, Iranian Assistant Foreign Minister Mohammad Alibek met with Nacouzis and lodged a formal protest against the declaration. Alibek asserted that Iran considers the islands of Abu Musa, Greater Tunb, and Lesser Tunb as integral parts of its territory. He emphasised that Iran’s historical sovereignty over these islands is undisputed.

    Iran’s Stance on Sovereignty

    During the meeting, Alibek condemned any territorial claims against Iran, describing them as a violation of the fundamental principle of national sovereignty and territorial integrity. He urged the Cypriot government to rectify what he termed a serious mistake and to avoid similar actions in the future. The Cypriot declaration, made on Sunday, clearly supported the UAE’s sovereignty over the islands.

    Joint Declaration Details

    The joint statement from Cyprus and the UAE reaffirmed Cyprus’s support for the UAE’s claims over Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa. The declaration also referenced a previous statement from the European Union and the Gulf Cooperation Council, which called on Iran to end its “occupation” of the islands. This statement labelled Iran’s presence on the islands as a violation of UAE sovereignty and United Nations principles.

    Geographical and Historical Context

    Abu Musa, the largest of the three islands, is situated roughly between Dubai and the Iranian coastal town of Bandar Lengeh, featuring a commercial airport with flights to Iran. Greater Tunb and Lesser Tunb lie further northeast, close to the Iranian island of Qeshm, and have a combined population of approximately 300.

    The historical roots of the dispute trace back to the period of British rule over the Trucial States, now the UAE. A memorandum of understanding was signed before the UAE’s formation in 1971, stipulating joint administration of Abu Musa between Iran and the Emirate of Sharjah. However, Iran seized Greater Tunb and Lesser Tunb on the same day the memorandum was signed and took control of Abu Musa the following day.

    Escalation of Tensions

    Following the 1971 events, the UAE submitted its claim to the United Nations in 1980, but this issue has remained unresolved. Over the years, Iran has strengthened its military presence on the islands, establishing naval bases to patrol the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

    The current diplomatic spat is not the first incident this year between Iran and Cyprus. In June, a misunderstanding arose involving Iran’s conflict with Israel, where Cyprus was mistakenly believed to be conveying messages between the two nations. Such incidents highlight the fragile nature of relations in the region.

    Future Implications

    The summons of the Cypriot ambassador signals Iran’s commitment to assert its claims over the islands, while Cyprus’s alignment with the UAE reflects the geopolitical complexities at play. As regional tensions persist, the situation surrounding these islands remains a point of contention that could affect broader diplomatic relations.

    The Iranian government’s strong reaction underscores its sensitivity to any perceived challenges to its territorial integrity. Meanwhile, the Cypriot administration has signalled its ongoing support for the UAE, indicating a potential rift with Iran that may have implications for future interactions.

  • 1974 war — Injured 1974 War Veterans Granted Increased Benefits

    1974 war — Injured 1974 War Veterans Granted Increased Benefits

    1974 war — Injured 1974 war veterans are set to receive increased benefits following a recent decision by the Council of Ministers. This move comes as part of an effort to enhance support for those who have sustained disabilities as a result of their service in the 1974 conflict.

    974 war: Significant Increase in Allowances

    Social Welfare Deputy Minister Clea Hadjistefanou-Papaellinas announced that veterans receiving institutional care will see their monthly allowances rise from €745 to €1,300. This substantial increase aims to improve the quality of life for veterans who require additional financial support.

    Broader Impact on Home Care Support

    The new amendments not only benefit those in institutional care but are also expected to lead to an increase in the number of beneficiaries receiving allowances for home care, whether occasional or full-time. This broader impact underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the needs of veterans and ensuring they receive adequate support.

    Inclusion in Government Care Plans

    Additionally, the cabinet has approved amendments to include these veterans in the government’s care plan for prisoners of war and other victims of war. This inclusion is a significant step toward recognising the sacrifices made by veterans and ensures they have access to necessary resources.

    Addressing Past Subsidy Issues

    In recent years, the government faced criticism regarding the allocation of subsidies to former war prisoners of the 1974 conflict. Allegations surfaced that some individuals received minimal payments, as low as €8 per month, while others were granted subsidies without having been actual war prisoners. The House refugee committee announced in 2024 that it would take measures to rectify these issues.

    Ongoing Efforts for Accurate Records

    The committee discovered multiple registers of those affected, linked to social insurance benefits, which contributed to discrepancies in the distribution of support. The government is now focused on ensuring accurate records to prevent future misallocations and to provide rightful benefits to those in need.

  • Giovani Lawyer Critiques Prosecution in Golden Passports Trial

    Giovani Lawyer Critiques Prosecution in Golden Passports Trial

    The golden passports trial is drawing significant scrutiny as George Papaioannou, the defence lawyer representing former MP Christakis Giovanis, delivered his final address in the Nicosia Criminal Court. He accused the prosecution of engaging in “manifest deception” against the defence.

    • “This was decided along the way, without amending the indictment and with manifest deception of the defence,” Papaioannou argued, highlighting the discrepancies that had arisen.
    • In light of these arguments, he requested the court to acquit Giovanis on all charges.

    This case, linked to the infamous golden passports scandal, emerged following a 2020 Al Jazeera undercover investigation that prompted the resignations of Giovanis and former Speaker of the House, Demetris Syllouris.

    Golden passports: Prosecution’s Focus Shift

    Papaioannou asserted that the prosecution had strayed from the original charges, which were centred on residency permit criteria. He claimed that the courtroom evidence was concentrated on financial issues that had not been investigated by the police, thereby compromising the accused’s right to a fair trial.

    During interrogations, he noted that Giovanis, Syllouris, and lawyer Andreas Pittadjis were questioned solely about residency permits, which formed the basis of charges two and three. However, he pointed out that none of the police inquiries addressed the financial aspects that the prosecution later relied upon in court.

    “This was decided along the way, without amending the indictment and with manifest deception of the defence,” Papaioannou argued, highlighting the discrepancies that had arisen.

    Concerns Over Missing Testimonies

    Another pivotal aspect of Papaioannou’s address was the absence of two crucial figures from the trial, which he claimed resulted in significant gaps in testimony and distorted the facts presented in court. He specifically mentioned the missing service provider, Andreas Pittadjis, who had played a central role in the case as both Gornovski’s lawyer and Giovanis’s legal advisor.

    Pittadjis was initially co-defendant in the first three indictments but was removed from the fourth indictment without explanation, raising concerns about the integrity of the prosecution’s case. Papaioannou contended that the evidence suggested Pittadjis had a far more active role than Giovanis, whose involvement was limited to signing the Reservation Agreement under Pittadjis’s guidance.

    He also noted that Nikolai Gornovski, the naturalised investor, was absent from the indictment and had not been questioned as a suspect. “The absence of both the service provider and the investor creates a one-sided and distorted picture of the case,” he emphasised.

    Call for Acquittal Amidst Legal Flaws

    Papaioannou concluded his address by highlighting the overarching flaws in the legal process, asserting that the defence was presented with charges that diverged significantly from those initially investigated. He introduced the notion of “lurking doubt,” suggesting that the case was fraught with insurmountable issues that would render any conviction “extremely erroneous” and “insecure.”

    In light of these arguments, he requested the court to acquit Giovanis on all charges.

    Prosecution’s Next Steps

    In response to the defence’s claims, prosecution representative Charis Karaolidou sought additional time from the court to formulate a counter to the assertions regarding fair trial violations. The court has scheduled a new hearing for tomorrow at 09:30 to address the prosecution’s response and will announce the date for its decision afterward.

  • Cyprus-Israel Defence Talks Focus on Regional Security Cooperation

    Cyprus-Israel Defence Talks Focus on Regional Security Cooperation

    cyprus-israel defence — Cyprus-Israel defence discussions have centred on enhancing regional security and bilateral cooperation during Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas’s official visit to Israel. The talks, confirmed by the Cypriot defence ministry, occurred just ahead of Cyprus’s upcoming presidency of the Council of the European Union, set for the first half of 2026.

    Cyprus-israel defence: Strengthening Ties Amid Regional Challenges

    In discussions with his Israeli counterpart, Israel Katz, Palmas addressed the security dynamics not only in Cyprus but also in Israel and the broader Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East regions. This dialogue is part of ongoing efforts to bolster bilateral defence and security relationships between the two nations.

    Focus on European Unity and Stability

    Palmas articulated that Cyprus aims to leverage its EU presidency to foster European unity and enhance strategic stability in the eastern Mediterranean. The minister emphasised the importance of regional cooperation, stating, “During our presidency, we will encourage dialogue in areas of mutual interest, promoting peace, stability, and adherence to international law.” This commitment underscores the growing alignment in defence strategies between Cyprus and Israel.

    Recent Developments in Defence Cooperation

    Cypriot-Israeli defence ties have seen significant growth in recent years. Notably, Cyprus has procured the Barak MX air defence system from Israel, which is being delivered incrementally and is expected to be fully operational by the end of this year. This acquisition reflects a deeper military collaboration aimed at addressing shared security concerns.

    Palmas’s Visit and Engagements

    Palmas arrived in Israel on Monday and was slated to return to Cyprus late Tuesday afternoon. During his visit, he toured the Civil-Military Coordination Centre (CMCC) in Kiryat Gat, which serves as a hub for military and humanitarian operations related to the Gaza ceasefire. He met with Major General Patrick Frank, the director of the CMCC, to discuss ongoing stabilisation and relief efforts in the region.

    The Role of the Civil-Military Coordination Centre

    The CMCC was established in October 2025 following a peace agreement aimed at coordinating humanitarian and stabilisation efforts in Gaza. Currently, it hosts personnel from approximately 20 countries, including Cyprus, although specific numbers of Cypriot personnel and their roles remain undisclosed.

    Humanitarian Aid Oversight in Gaza

    Recent reports indicate that the CMCC has assumed oversight of humanitarian aid entering the Gaza Strip, with responsibilities previously held by Israel’s Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories now diminished. An early November report noted that while Israel retains control over Gaza’s perimeter and entry of goods, the CMCC’s role has become more central to aid distribution.

    A US military official described the relationship between Israel and the CMCC as an integration of efforts, stating, “It is an integration. It is hand in glove. They [the Israelis] remain the hand, and the CMCC have become the glove over that hand.” This statement highlights the complexities of humanitarian operations in the region amid ongoing tensions.

    Prospects for Future Cooperation

    The discussions between Palmas and Katz set the stage for increased collaboration in the face of evolving security challenges, particularly in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and broader geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. As Cyprus prepares for its EU presidency, the focus will be on fostering a unified approach to security in the eastern Mediterranean.

    With both nations committed to enhancing their bilateral ties, the potential for future joint initiatives appears promising. As the situation in the region continues to develop, the relationship between Cyprus and Israel may play a crucial role in promoting stability and security in an area marked by ongoing conflicts.

  • France Positioned to Lead in Resolving Cyprus Problem, Says President Christodoulides

    France Positioned to Lead in Resolving Cyprus Problem, Says President Christodoulides

    France could and should play a leading role in efforts to solve the Cyprus problem, according to President Nikos Christodoulides. In a recent interview with Le Figaro, he expressed his hopes for increased French involvement, emphasising the unique position France holds within the European Union and the United Nations.

    Christodoulides noted that France is not only an EU member but also a permanent member of the UN Security Council, making it a key player in international discussions on the matter. “Any progress must be based on UN Security Council resolutions to allow us to move forward,” he stated.

    He stressed the importance of creating conditions conducive to resuming discussions centred around a bizonal and bicommunal federation, as outlined in various UN resolutions. “I am very pleased that this point was mentioned in a joint statement last week,” he added, referring to a tripartite meeting with UN envoy Maria Angela Holguin and Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman.

    During the conversation, Christodoulides articulated a vision for a reunified Cyprus, where both Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots would enjoy the same rights as citizens of EU member states. He asserted, “After the Cyprus issue is resolved, the Republic of Cyprus should be a fully functioning state.” This perspective aligns with broader goals for Cyprus to strengthen its role in the region post-resolution.

    The discussion surrounding France’s potential role in resolving the Cyprus problem comes on the heels of supportive remarks from French President Emmanuel Macron. Following the signing of a strategic partnership between France and Cyprus, Macron expressed his hopes for a solution that would allow all Cypriots to live together harmoniously on a reunified island. “France strongly supports the United Nations’ mediation efforts for a just, comprehensive, and lasting settlement of the Cyprus issue,” he stated.

    Macron’s commitment underscores the shared interest between Cyprus and France in fostering stability in the region. As diplomatic discussions continue, the call for deeper French involvement from President Christodoulides could pave the way for renewed efforts towards a long-awaited resolution.

  • Cannabis Trafficking Sentence Extended After Attorney-General’s Appeal

    Cannabis Trafficking Sentence Extended After Attorney-General’s Appeal

    cannabis trafficking — A nine-year prison sentence for cannabis trafficking has been increased to 12 years following an appeal from the attorney-general. The man, convicted of importing, possessing, and intending to supply 8.155kg of cannabis, had his original sentence deemed inadequate by the legal service.

    The appeal was prompted by concerns over the need for stricter penalties for drug-related offences. The attorney-general argued that the initial sentence did not reflect the seriousness of the crime, which involved a significant quantity of drugs intended for distribution within Cyprus.

    The cannabis was discovered in a box that arrived at Larnaca airport from the United States. The individual who signed for the package was later sentenced to six months in prison for forgery, as he unknowingly acted at the behest of the main importer.

    The Paphos criminal court had initially sentenced the importer to nine years of concurrent imprisonment. However, the appeals court found this ruling insufficient, noting, “We find that it was wrong not to give any weight to the facts of the commission of the offence, which were particularly aggravating for the respondent.” The court highlighted that the importer had involved innocent parties in his scheme, further complicating the case.

    The court’s decision reflects a growing emphasis on imposing tougher sanctions for drug trafficking, particularly when it involves large quantities and the exploitation of others. This ruling serves as a reminder of the legal system’s commitment to deterring such crimes and ensuring accountability.

  • Cyprus President Advocates for Nato Membership as Natural Progression

    Cyprus President Advocates for Nato Membership as Natural Progression

    Joining Nato would be a natural development for Cyprus, according to President Nikos Christodoulides. In an interview with French newspaper Le Figaro, he expressed strong aspirations for the island’s accession to the military alliance.

    Christodoulides stated, “If it were possible for Cyprus to apply tomorrow and receive a positive response from all member states, we would do so.” However, he acknowledged the significant hurdle posed by the unresolved Cyprus problem, which he believes would lead Turkey to veto any application.

    In light of this, the President revealed that efforts are underway to enhance Cyprus’s military capabilities to align more closely with those of existing Nato members. He noted, “For this reason, we are working methodically to strengthen our military to bring it up to the level of other Nato members, while we wait for the political conditions to be met for us to join the organisation.”

    Christodoulides highlighted that Cyprus has already established a clear foreign policy, significantly leaning towards the West. The notion of joining Nato gained traction following his meeting with former US President Joe Biden at the White House last year. Reports indicated that during this meeting, Christodoulides presented a plan for Cyprus’s future accession to Nato.

    Post-meeting, he reiterated that Cyprus was preparing for Nato membership, contingent on Turkey retracting its objections. However, these aspirations were met with resistance from Turkey, whose defence ministry declared that Cypriot membership in Nato would be “unacceptable” and could disrupt the fragile balance regarding the Cyprus issue.

    Shifting focus away from the potential for Nato membership, Cyprus has been actively reorienting its defence strategy towards the West. At the beginning of the year, the United States granted the island permission to procure military hardware directly from its government, marking a significant step in its defence policy.

    Cyprus was integrated into several US defence programmes, including the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme, the Excess Defence Articles (EDA) programme, and is set to receive resources under the US’s Title 10 security assistance provisions. These initiatives are designed to bolster Cyprus’s military infrastructure and capabilities.

    In the autumn, the National Guard received the Israeli Barak MX air defence system, a sophisticated surface-to-air missile capable of defending against a wide range of airborne threats. This acquisition further solidifies Cyprus’s position within the US defence ecosystem and reflects its commitment to enhancing its military readiness.

  • Cyprus defence — Cyprus Defence Minister Engages with Israel on Regional Security Ahead of EU Presidency

    Cyprus defence — Cyprus Defence Minister Engages with Israel on Regional Security Ahead of EU Presidency

    cyprus defence — cyprus defence — Cyprus’s defence minister visited Israel to discuss regional security and bilateral cooperation ahead of the island’s upcoming European Union presidency. Vasilis Palmas met his Israeli counterpart, Israel Katz, on 15 and 16 December to exchange views on the security situation in Cyprus, Israel, and the wider Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East, according to a ministry statement.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    Cyprus defence: Strengthening Defence Ties

    The two ministers examined ways to reinforce bilateral defence and security ties between their countries. Palmas highlighted the importance of collaboration, stating that the Cypriot government will utilise its forthcoming EU Council presidency to enhance European unity and foster strategic stability in the region.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    Promoting Cooperation and Stability

    During his discussions, Palmas expressed Cyprus’s intent to deepen cooperation with Israel, aiming to encourage dialogue in areas of mutual interest while promoting regional peace, stability, and respect for international law.

    A Visit to the Civil-Military Coordination Centre

    While in Israel, Palmas visited the Civil-Military Coordination Centre, which serves as a key coordination hub for military, humanitarian, and international organisations involved in supporting the Gaza ceasefire implementation. He met with the centre’s commander, Major General Patrick D. Frank, to discuss ongoing efforts and collaborative strategies.

    Looking Ahead

    This visit comes as Cyprus prepares for its significant role in the EU, where it aims to address pressing issues in the Eastern Mediterranean. The discussions reflect a growing commitment between Cyprus and Israel to not only enhance their bilateral relations but also contribute positively to the broader regional landscape.

  • Air space — Cyprus Highlights 328 Turkish Air Space Violations to UN Security Council

    Air space — Cyprus Highlights 328 Turkish Air Space Violations to UN Security Council

    Cyprus has reported extensive Turkish air space violations to the UN Security Council, detailing 328 air incursions and 16 naval breaches during July and August 2025.

    • Cyprus has reported extensive Turkish air space violations to the UN Security Council, detailing 328 air incursions and 16 naval breaches during July and August 2025.

    A letter from Cyprus’s Permanent Mission was circulated among council members on 8 December, revealing that among the air violations, 93 involved Turkish unmanned military aircraft, while 56 were executed by armed military fighter jets. These actions have been described by Nicosia as a clear violation of its sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.

    The violations extended beyond mere incursions. Cyprus asserted that Turkish forces breached its national airspace, the Nicosia Flight Information Region (FIR), and territorial waters. Furthermore, allegations were made regarding the illegal use of closed ports and airports by Turkish military units.

    Concerns were also raised over nearly daily entries into the designated dead zone and the bolstering of military infrastructure in occupied territories. Such practices have been characterised as part of Turkey’s persistent aggressive behaviour, aimed at establishing new faits accomplis that threaten the security of all Cypriots.

    In its communication to the UN, Cyprus emphasised that these developments undermine efforts to resume negotiations for a peaceful resolution. Despite these challenges, Cyprus reiterated its commitment to working closely with the Secretary-General and his Personal Envoy to foster the necessary conditions for dialogue. The letter reaffirmed a desire for a bicommunal, bizonal federation with political equality, in line with United Nations resolutions.

    The Cypriot mission has requested that the letter and accompanying documents be officially recorded as part of the 80th Session of the General Assembly under the Cyprus question and the Security Council agenda.

  • Mari naval — Cyprus and France Enhance Mari Naval Base for Permanent French Military Presence

    Mari naval — Cyprus and France Enhance Mari Naval Base for Permanent French Military Presence

    Cyprus and France have embarked on a significant upgrade of the Mari Naval Base, aimed at ensuring a permanent French military presence in the Eastern Mediterranean. This strategic initiative was formalised through a Strategic Declaration and an accompanying Action Plan for 2026–2030, signed during a visit by President Nikos Christodoulides to Paris.

    Mari naval: Strengthening Defence and Security Collaboration

    The primary focus of the agreement is on Defence and Security, encompassing two main elements: the enhancement of the Mari Naval Base and a substantial defence procurement deal. The upgraded facility will be capable of hosting large French warships, marking a pivotal expansion of military cooperation between the two nations.

    Major Defence Procurement Deal

    As part of the agreement, the French military industry will fulfil 85% of the defence equipment requested by Cyprus under the SAFE programme. This procurement is not merely a transaction; it mandates the involvement of Cypriot companies, stipulating a 15% share in the production of each programme. This provision is expected to result in significant knowledge transfer, bolstering the capabilities of the Cypriot National Guard, particularly in aerial assets and communications systems.

    A Comprehensive Roadmap for Cooperation

    Beyond military enhancements, the Strategic Declaration outlines a broad framework for collaboration across sixteen sectors. This shift from declarations to actionable policies is designed to foster a deeper partnership between Cyprus and France.

    Key Areas of Cooperation

    • Schengen Representation: France will represent Cyprus in 25 third countries, providing consular services related to Schengen visa issuance once Cyprus achieves full Schengen Area accession.
    • IMEC Corridor: The agreement highlights cooperation in the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), recognising Cyprus as a vital hub that contributes to regional stability and interconnectivity.
    • Investment Opportunities: During the governmental meetings, a French company showed interest in making significant investments at Larnaca port, indicating potential economic benefits for Cyprus.
    • Sectoral Collaborations: The agreement also encompasses areas such as Civil Protection, Digital Policy, Public Health, Maritime Affairs, and Energy, including workshops on integrating renewable energy sources into national grids.

    Monitoring and Implementation

    The implementation of the Strategic Declaration and Action Plan will be overseen through annual high-level intergovernmental meetings involving senior officials from the two Foreign Ministries, as well as biennial meetings at the Ministerial level. This structured approach aims to ensure that the initiatives outlined in the agreement are effectively realised and managed.

    Long-Term Implications for Regional Stability

    The upgrade of the Mari Naval Base and the broader agreement signify a pivotal moment in the defence posture of Cyprus and France in the Eastern Mediterranean. By reinforcing military capabilities and enhancing bilateral cooperation, both nations are taking proactive steps towards ensuring regional security and stability.

    As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, this partnership may play a crucial role in addressing emerging challenges and fostering a collaborative approach to defence and security in a region of strategic importance.