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Tag: Cyprus

  • Fisheries — President Christodoulides Welcomes European Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans

    Fisheries — President Christodoulides Welcomes European Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans

    President Nikos Christodoulides received the European Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, Costas Kadis, at the presidential palace on Thursday, marking a significant step in enhancing collaboration between Cyprus and the European Union.

    Kadis, who visited Cyprus with a dedicated team, expressed that the aim of the visit is to strengthen collaborative work and exchange ideas on the Commission’s advancements in fisheries. This meeting comes at a crucial time as fisheries management and ocean conservation are increasingly important topics across EU member states.

    During the discussions, Kadis provided President Christodoulides with insights into recent activities related to fisheries. “We examine issues that concern all member states with great care, with the remaining members of the group being particularly sensitive and aware of issues that concern Cyprus,” he remarked, highlighting the importance of tailored approaches to fisheries management that consider local needs and circumstances.

    The Commissioner also mentioned the formation of a team of esteemed experts focused on addressing these issues effectively. This initiative aims to foster a collaborative environment where member states can share their experiences and strategies for sustainable fisheries practices.

    As the European Union continues to navigate challenges related to marine ecosystems, Kadis’ visit underscores the commitment to enhancing cooperative efforts in the sector. With Cyprus being a vital player in the Mediterranean, these discussions are expected to yield positive outcomes for local fisheries and the broader EU agenda on ocean conservation.

  • Overnight Pharmacies Available Across Cyprus on October 9

    Overnight Pharmacies Available Across Cyprus on October 9

    Overnight pharmacies will be available across Cyprus on Thursday, October 9, providing essential services to those in need after regular business hours.

    Overnight pharmacies: Pharmacies in Nicosia

    In the capital city, several pharmacies will remain open overnight:

    • Theofanous Thekla, Polykleitou 8, PEO Trade Union Pharmacy, Nicosia, tel. 22349778.
    • Georgiadis Ploutarchos, Tseriou Avenue 34C, next to “ZAKO” and opposite “BLUE ISLAND” fish market, Strovolos, tel. 22311995, 99042275.
    • Assioti Eva, Angelos Terzakis 4, apt. 2, from Agios Panteleimon towards Tymvou, at the first traffic lights left then 1st right at 500m, Engomi, tel. 22255524.
    • Proestou Margarita, Stasinou 46, apt. 3, opposite Central Bank, next to “Gloria Jeans”, Strovolos, tel. 22952095, 96626370.
    • Varelia Liza, Achaion 6C, Nicosia Polyclinic road, opposite “Altius” hotel, Nicosia, tel. 22776861, 99006201.
    • Pastelli Eleni, Archbishop Makarios III 33 I&Θ, next to “Coffee Island”, opposite “CYTACOM SOLUTIONS” and “AELIOTIS”, Latsia, tel. 22574573, 99375857.

    Pharmacies in Limassol

    Limassol will also host several overnight pharmacies:

    • Petridou Chryso, Omonoia Avenue 12, “Alexia Court”, Limassol, tel. 25571632, 25770448.
    • Filippidou – Fourla Marina, Nikos Pattichis 7A, 500m north of Polemidia traffic lights, between Petrolina and EKO fuel stations, Limassol, tel. 25334403, 25770275.
    • Solomonidou Christiana, Agias Fylaxeos 199, “Galaxia Center”, next to “Zorpas” bakery, opposite CYTA, near Agia Fyla roundabout, Limassol, tel. 25212266, 99354537.
    • Nikolaidou Georgia, Griva Digeni 2, apt. 8, next to Courts and opposite St. Mary’s school, Limassol, tel. 25222223, 97863108.
    • Leonidou Natasa, Kolonakiou 60, “COLUMBIA” road, Linopetras area, opposite “ELECTROLINE”, Agios Athanasios, tel. 25327766, 25102915.

    Pharmacies in Larnaca

    Larnaca residents can access the following overnight pharmacies:

    • Rotis Christofora, Kyriakou Matsis 5, apt. 1, opposite “SUPER DISCOUNT STORE”, Livadia-Aradippou border, Livadia, tel. 24400897, 97790853.
    • Sokratous – Kyprianou Eleni, Kilkis 15-17, “Antroulla Court”, apt. 4, near Nuns School, Larnaca, tel. 24651035, 24624163.
    • Michail Elena, Georgios Christodoulidis 5, between “Kleima” roundabout and new GSZ roundabout, Larnaca, tel. 24250900.

    Pharmacies in Paphos

    Paphos will also have a selection of pharmacies open overnight:

    • Ellinas Irini, Danais 31B, opposite “Olympic Lagoon Resort” (former “Amathus”), Kato Paphos, tel. 26964837.
    • Erotokritou Anna, King Stasikos, apt. 3, Prodromi, tel. 26652110, 97678977.

    Pharmacies in Famagusta

    In the Famagusta region, the following pharmacies will be operational:

    • Kamilaris Andreas, Korais 52, opposite Paralimni Lyceum, Paralimni, tel. 23744160, 23743418.
    • Pittatzii Kornilia, 1st April 10C, near Hellenic Bank (former Cooperative), Sotira, tel. 23824730, 23823308.

    These pharmacies are crucial in ensuring that communities across Cyprus have access to necessary medications and healthcare support during the night, providing peace of mind for residents.

  • Cyprus Faces Challenges with Upcoming EU Dog and Cat Welfare Regulation

    Cyprus Faces Challenges with Upcoming EU Dog and Cat Welfare Regulation

    eu dog — Cyprus is unprepared for the new EU dog and cat welfare regulation set to take effect in the coming months. The European Union has mandated its member states to implement a comprehensive framework aimed at enhancing the welfare and traceability of pets, following the European Parliament’s approval of strict measures on 19 June 2025.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    This regulation introduces rigorous standards for breeding, housing, and handling of dogs and cats, alongside universal microchip identification. The goal is to improve transparency for consumers and foster fair competition among breeders, sellers, and shelters without imposing undue burdens on existing pet owners.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    Eu dog: New Standards for Pet Welfare

    The measures under discussion focus on establishing minimum welfare standards for animal facilities. These include requirements for adequate space, proper lighting, sufficient ventilation, and access to food and water. Additionally, regular inspections and annual veterinary visits will be mandated to ensure compliance and proper record-keeping.

    Identification is a central aspect of the new regulation; every dog and cat must have a microchip and be registered in a national database prior to being sold or adopted. This database will be interoperable across the EU, allowing for easy tracing of each animal’s origin and ownership history.

    Implications for Cyprus

    For Cyprus, the passing of this regulation necessitates the establishment of a unified national registry for dogs and cats, linked to the broader European database. The Veterinary Services are designated as the competent authority, responsible for conducting inspections, licensing facilities, and performing annual veterinary checks. Sanctions for non-compliance will need to be effective and proportionate, while clear guidelines for online advertisements are essential.

    Concerns Over Preparedness

    Despite the lengthy discussion surrounding these regulations within the EU, Cyprus has yet to make significant preparations for their implementation. Charalambos Theopemptou, the president of the Environment Committee, expressed concerns about the country’s readiness. He pointed out that while identification for dogs has been in place since 2002, many dogs remain unregistered, and the challenge of identifying the owners of the estimated one million cats in Cyprus remains unresolved.

    Theopemptou emphasised that the regulation will automatically come into force without needing parliamentary approval. “The government has known about it since 2022,” he stated, noting that other countries have been proactive in their preparations. He reiterated that the regulation’s final text is pending a vote in the European Parliament, expected later this year.

    Call for Action

    The situation calls for immediate action from the government, municipalities, pet shops, and breeders in Cyprus. They must evaluate existing legislation, organise their records, and enhance facilities to comply with the forthcoming standards. The urgency for coordination between the national registry and the European system cannot be overstated, as the timeline for implementation approaches.

    The new regulations represent a significant shift in how pets are treated across the EU, aiming to combat illegal trade and improve animal welfare standards. As the deadline looms, the need for effective preparation in Cyprus becomes increasingly critical.

  • Free tree — Free Tree Saplings Offered to Combat Climate Change in Cyprus

    Free tree — Free Tree Saplings Offered to Combat Climate Change in Cyprus

    free tree — As Cyprus intensifies its fight against climate change, the forestry department is providing free tree saplings to public bodies and residents in a significant initiative. The ‘planting for the climate’ programme aims to distribute up to 100,000 saplings, valued at €250,000, during the planting season from November to February.

    Free tree: Supporting a National Goal

    The initiative is part of a broader ambition to plant one million new trees across Cyprus by 2030. This effort aligns with a European Union commitment to plant three billion trees by the same deadline. To facilitate tracking the progress of these environmental efforts, the forestry department has established a dedicated database, monitoring activities from 2019 onwards.

    Eligibility and Application Process

    The free saplings are available to a variety of eligible applicants, including local authorities, schools, government services, churches, and organised citizen initiatives with appropriate planting sites. If the demand from these groups is insufficient, up to half of the saplings will be allocated to individual residents.

    Applications for the saplings are open from October 8 to November 7. Interested parties can submit their requests at local forestry stations, via email, or through the department’s website. Municipalities are encouraged to collaborate with local groups to enhance their chances of securing these valuable resources.

    Seedling Specifications

    In addition to smaller saplings, the programme also includes larger saplings grown in containers exceeding three litres, which may be offered free of charge. This approach aims to maximise the impact of the planting initiative by providing a range of options suitable for different planting environments.

    Community Engagement

    Through this initiative, the forestry department seeks to engage the community in environmental stewardship and promote the importance of tree planting as a tool against climate change. Residents are encouraged to participate actively, whether through individual applications or by joining organised efforts in their localities.

  • Hiv prevention — Cyprus Introduces Free HIV Prevention Drug Programme in Nicosia and Larnaca

    Hiv prevention — Cyprus Introduces Free HIV Prevention Drug Programme in Nicosia and Larnaca

    hiv prevention — hiv prevention — The launch of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) services marks a monumental step in Cyprus’ efforts to combat HIV. This initiative allows HIV-negative individuals to take medication that significantly lowers their risk of contracting the virus upon potential exposure.

    In a press release, the Health Ministry highlighted that this scientifically proven preventive method aligns with practices already established in numerous European countries, adhering to the guidelines set forth by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). The introduction of PrEP is not just a medical advancement; it embodies Cyprus’ commitment to enhancing public health and reducing new HIV diagnoses.

    The new PrEP services will be available free of charge at public health facilities in Nicosia and Larnaca, ensuring complete confidentiality for users. Appointments can be made for afternoon clinics starting from 9 October 2025. This initiative will be supervised by specialist doctors, providing essential support and guidance to those in need.

    Moreover, individuals looking for additional information and assistance can reach out to the AIDS Solidarity Movement through the Cyprus PrEP Point. This resource aims to connect citizens directly with Health Ministry services, ensuring that support is readily available.

    By implementing this programme, Cyprus not only enhances its public health framework but also aligns with international standards in addressing HIV infections. As the country steps into this new era of proactive health measures, the potential for reducing the impact of HIV is more promising than ever.

  • Dispute Over Payment Structures Clouds Great Sea Interconnector Project

    Dispute Over Payment Structures Clouds Great Sea Interconnector Project

    great sea — A longstanding difference over payment structures is at the heart of the ongoing dispute involving the Great Sea Interconnector (GSI) project. Sources revealed that the energy regulator of Cyprus is at odds with Admie, Greece’s independent power transmission operator and the project promoter for the GSI.

    • In a clarification issued after President Christodoulides’ remarks, Admie stated it was not demanding the entire €251 million immediately but was contesting Cera's verification of €82 million.

    The issue resurfaced following strong comments made by Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides, who asserted that the state would not be “blackmailed” by Admie. This statement came in response to a report from the daily Phileleftheros, which highlighted the tensions surrounding the project.

    President Christodoulides reiterated that there is “no crisis” between the governments of Cyprus and Greece, despite the apparent disagreements over the GSI. He acknowledged that some “technocratic differences” exist regarding the project.

    On Monday, the Cyprus energy regulatory authority (Cera) confirmed it had received a letter from Admie concerning its expenses on the GSI. The letter, dated September 26, appeals a previous decision made by Cera in July, where only €82 million in capital expenditures (capex) was verified by the regulator. In contrast, Admie claims it has spent €251 million to date.

    In a clarification issued after President Christodoulides’ remarks, Admie stated it was not demanding the entire €251 million immediately but was contesting Cera’s verification of €82 million.

    This disagreement stems from a history of disputes dating back to when EuroAsia Interconnector Ltd, a Cypriot company, was the original project promoter. After EuroAsia withdrew in October 2023 due to financing issues, Admie took over but found the existing agreement with Cera unsatisfactory. The previous agreement allowed for some expense recovery only after project completion, while Admie insists on the ability to recoup costs as they occur.

    Differences in regulatory practices between Cyprus and Greece exacerbate the situation. In Cyprus, it is customary for the implementing entity to be reimbursed after completing a project, whereas Greece permits reimbursement of expenses as they arise. This fundamental disagreement remains unresolved, with Admie’s recent letter being the latest development in ongoing discussions.

    Cera has not accused Admie of dishonesty regarding the €251 million claim; rather, it has requested evidence in the form of invoices to support the expenditure. Currently, Cera maintains that only €82 million can be substantiated.

    In July 2024, Cyprus and Greece entered into an interstate agreement committing Cyprus to pay €25 million annually into the GSI project from 2025 to 2030, totalling €125 million. However, this agreement does not address the core issue of when expenses can be reimbursed, leaving Admie’s costs to accumulate.

    It’s important to note that the €251 million claimed by Admie does not represent Cyprus’ total liability. Cyprus is responsible for 63% of that amount, while Greece covers the remaining 37%, as per the agreed division of costs.

    The overall cost of the interconnector project is estimated at €1.9 billion, and as time progresses, Admie’s financial claims may increase beyond the current figure. Complicating matters further is the ongoing Turkish interference, which has halted depth surveys necessary for mapping the subsea cable route. So far, surveys have only been conducted in the territorial waters off Crete and Cyprus, with Turkish claims of continental shelf rights preventing exploration in international waters. This leaves significant gaps in the necessary seabed mapping for the project.

  • A e: Doctors Criticise A&E Raids by Audit Office Officials

    A e: Doctors Criticise A&E Raids by Audit Office Officials

    a e — a e — Doctors are voicing their outrage following the unexpected overnight raids by Audit Office officials at the accident and emergency departments of both Nicosia and Limassol general hospitals on October 1. The inspections were conducted in a manner deemed offensive by the medical community, raising serious concerns about patient privacy and the integrity of medical data.

    Sotiris Koumas, president of the Pancyprian Union of Government Doctors, expressed his frustration about the demands placed on the medical staff. He stated, “The manner in which the inspections were conducted and the demands made by Audit Office officials were offensive and certainly exceeded limits in some cases, as they asked doctors, amongst other things, to prove they had served a patient by presenting data in the electronic files of General Healthcare System beneficiaries.”

    Koumas highlighted that no entity has the right to access the medical data of any patient who has visited the A&E, questioning the relevance of patient medical information to the purpose of the Audit Office’s inspections. “This is also a violation of patients’ rights, amongst many other things,” he added.

    During the raids, doctors on duty were reportedly asked to present their identity cards to verify their registration as medical professionals on duty that night. Koumas commented, “In other words, you call a doctor to leave his post whilst they are on active duty, and you ask them to show you their identity card. I think this is not the way for the Audit Office to conduct an inspection.”

    Adding to the controversy, officials are said to have contacted on-call doctors at home to assess their response times. Koumas explained, “At 1 am and 2 am they were telephoning doctors to check whether they would respond. If this is indeed true, it means that other serious issues arise.” These actions have prompted the union to consider the implications of such practices on the working environment for medical professionals.

    While Koumas acknowledged the Audit Office’s mandate to investigate potential abuses of power or misuse of public funds, he firmly reiterated that this does not justify the demand to access patient files. He stated, “With all due respect to the Audit Office and the Auditor General, access to patient files is permitted only to their doctor, and this is why only doctors have access to GHS files.”

    The union leader expressed concern about some colleagues who complied with requests to access patient files to confirm their treatments. He noted, “It is also very serious that some colleagues accepted and accessed the files of patients they had served in order to prove it.”

    Koumas concluded that the actions of both the audit officials and the doctors who acquiesced to these demands reflect a troubling environment that requires further scrutiny and discussion. He remarked, “The specific behaviours, both from the audit officials and from the doctors themselves, are the result of a climate that has been created and requires both analysis and criticism. Unfortunately, we have set a precedent.”

  • Cyprus 2026: Cyprus’ 2026 EU Presidency: A Challenge with Tourism Benefits

    Cyprus 2026: Cyprus’ 2026 EU Presidency: A Challenge with Tourism Benefits

    cyprus 2026 — cyprus 2026 — Cyprus’ 2026 EU Presidency presents both a significant challenge and an opportunity for tourism growth in the small nation, home to just over one million residents. As the country prepares to assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, it has outlined plans to host approximately 260 informal meetings, which are anticipated to generate around 62,500 overnight hotel stays during the first half of the year.

    Cyprus 2026: Boosting Tourism During Off-Peak Months

    The six-month presidency is strategically positioned in a period typically characterised by lower occupancy rates in hotels across Cyprus. Christos Aggelides, general manager of the Pasyxe tourism body, highlighted the expected positive impact on the tourism sector: “There will be 62,500 overnight stays due to the Cypriot presidency which will directly affect hotels and the tourism sector. It will have a positive effect because it will take place in a period when occupancy is not so high.”

    Key Venues and Infrastructure

    Meetings will primarily take place at the Filoxenia conference centre, which is equipped with five main halls and smaller meeting rooms capable of accommodating up to 800 participants. This venue boasts modern technological infrastructure and interpretation systems that meet EU standards, ensuring a seamless experience for attendees. Additionally, a renovated building, previously part of the higher hotel institute, will be designated as the press centre for journalists covering the presidency.

    Financial Considerations and Budget Management

    As Cyprus prepares to host the presidency, officials have indicated that the country will bear most of the costs associated with the event, including expenses for meeting rooms, equipment, security, translation services, and catering. The deputy ministry for European affairs has made it clear that efforts are underway to minimise the burden on the state budget while maintaining high-quality service standards.

    To further ease financial pressures, Cyprus plans to invite sponsorships from companies and organisations, which could help offset some costs. The deputy ministry emphasised that while Cyprus will remain responsible for the majority of expenses, some meetings may benefit from additional funding from the EU or other bodies.

    Transparency and Cost Control Initiatives

    Budget transparency and cost control are top priorities for the government as it approaches the presidency. Akis Kikas, audit director of the contact committee of the European Court of Auditors, stated, “Transparency is ensured as in all budgets. We always make sure that there are no wasteful expenses and that basic transparency exists. All funds included in each budget are approved by you.”

    The finance ministry reiterated that the budget for the presidency is integrated within the broader state budget and adheres to spending limits set by relevant EU directives. Officials are confident that the amounts allocated for the presidency will not threaten the sustainability of public finances.

    Limited EU Funding for the Presidency

    In terms of EU funding, the finance ministry clarified that council presidencies are generally funded by national resources rather than EU contributions. Only a small portion of meetings—approximately 30—will receive partial funding from the EU or other organisations, which could cover costs like accommodation, transport, or general conference expenses.

    As the ministry pointed out, “The contribution of the European Union to the budget for Cyprus’ presidency of the council is essentially negligible.” This reinforces the need for Cyprus to manage its finances prudently while ensuring that the presidency meets the expectations of both national and European stakeholders.

    Logistics and Hospitality Standards

    The logistics surrounding the presidency will also require careful planning. Luxury vehicles, buses, and minibuses will be used to transport heads of delegations and delegates. Security and traffic management will be coordinated by the relevant authorities, ensuring a safe and smooth experience for all participants.

    In a nod to Cypriot culture, the deputy ministry for European affairs assured that catering services will showcase the country’s hospitality, professionalism, and commitment to environmental sustainability. All services will undergo quality control to maintain high standards.

    A Balancing Act for Cyprus

    As Cyprus gears up for its presidency, officials face the delicate task of ensuring efficient organisation while controlling costs and maintaining transparency. The country aims to deliver a strong national message and reaffirm its position within the European Union through effective management of this prestigious role.

    The challenges ahead are significant, but with careful planning and a proactive approach, Cyprus is poised to make its presidency a success, benefiting not only from increased tourism but also from enhanced visibility on the European stage.

  • Cyprus sheftalia — Cyprus Sheftalia Ranked Second Best Sausage Dish in the World

    Cyprus sheftalia — Cyprus Sheftalia Ranked Second Best Sausage Dish in the World

    Cyprus sheftalia has earned the impressive title of the second best sausage dish globally, as recognised by Food Atlas. This traditional delicacy, often enjoyed in pitta alongside souvlakia to create a delightful mixed kebab, has outshone familiar English favourites like Toad in the Hole and Pigs in Blankets.

    Cyprus sheftalia: A Taste of Tradition

    Sheftalia is a unique dish that combines minced pork and lamb, seasoned with salt, pepper, and a hint of cinnamon. The meat is mixed with chopped red onion and parsley, then wrapped in caul fat—a delicate membrane that encases the stomachs of various animals such as cows, sheep, and pigs. This wrapping not only enhances the flavour but also helps maintain the juiciness of the meat during cooking.

    The Cooking Process

    Once prepared, the sheftalia mixture is formed into small sausage shapes, skewered, and grilled to perfection. As the sausages cook, the caul fat renders down, creating a crispy, caramelised exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender and juicy interior. This process is a key aspect of what makes sheftalia a beloved dish in Cyprus and now recognised worldwide.

    The Journey to Recognition

    Food Atlas highlighted the rich flavours and textures of sheftalia, placing it just behind the Greek dish Spetsofai in their rankings. The criteria for this judgement reflect a deep appreciation for not just taste, but also the cultural significance of the dish. The origins of the name sheftalia are debated, with theories suggesting it either derives from the Turkish word ‘seftali’, meaning peach, likely referencing the sausage’s texture, or is named after a street vendor credited with its invention.

    Global Sausage Rankings

    Sheftalia’s recognition comes as part of a broader celebration of sausage diversity around the world. Following closely behind in the rankings are iconic dishes such as Chorizo a la Parrilla from Argentina, Ovos mexidos com Farinheira from Portugal, and Nem Nuong from Vietnam. Each dish reflects its unique cultural heritage and culinary traditions.

    A Culinary Legacy

    The acclaim for sheftalia not only highlights its deliciousness but also underscores the importance of preserving traditional recipes that connect us to our cultural roots. As it gains international recognition, Cyprus sheftalia stands as a testament to the island’s rich culinary history and the joy of sharing food that brings people together.

  • Protesting: President Christodoulides Affirms Right to Protest Amid Police Controversy

    Protesting: President Christodoulides Affirms Right to Protest Amid Police Controversy

    protesting — President Nikos Christodoulides has stated that “no one is banned from protesting,” addressing concerns following a heavy-handed police response to a demonstration outside the foreign ministry on Thursday night. His remarks came during his arrival at a rural culture festival in the village of Lofou, where he reiterated the government’s commitment to the right to protest.

    On Thursday, demonstrators gathered to voice their opposition to Israel’s interception of boats heading towards Gaza, part of the Gaza Sumud flotilla. The protest escalated when riot police intervened, deploying pepper spray and engaging in physical confrontations with attendees.

    “The police have taken a very specific position,” Christodoulides remarked, defending recent legislation that imposes stricter regulations on protests, which had come under fire following the events of Thursday night. He stated that protests and the right to demonstrate are “absolutely respected and guaranteed” in Cyprus.

    The president acknowledged ongoing criticism of police actions, urging a balanced view of the circumstances under which security forces operate. He mentioned that any alleged excessive use of force would be investigated, assuring that appropriate measures would be taken if necessary.

    Following the protest, the political landscape shifted with Akel condemning the police’s response as an “unprovoked attack.” The party called for further protests, stating, “Akel calls on everyone who does not tolerate state repression and the government’s subservience to the Netanyahu regime to mobilise.”

    Volt echoed similar sentiments, emphasising that “violent repression of peaceful demonstrations has no place in a democratic and European country.” They condemned the police violence against demonstrators advocating for Palestinian rights, asserting that such actions undermine the principles of democracy.

    Accounts from the protest highlighted the chaotic scene, with a journalist from Haravgi reporting being injured during the police intervention. Veteran journalist Christos Christofides described being “thrown to the ground” amid the turmoil, thanking those who assisted him in escaping potential injury from the crowd.

    The union of Cyprus journalists condemned the police’s actions, noting that one of their members, despite identifying as a journalist, faced violence from officers. They called for an investigation led by Police Chief Themistos Arnaoutis, demanding accountability for the errant officers involved.

    The police response was justified by their statement that the protestors had blocked a lane of traffic outside the foreign ministry, necessitating intervention to clear the area. This incident in Nicosia was part of a broader wave of global protests against Israel’s military actions, which saw thousands taking to the streets in cities worldwide including Barcelona, Milan, and Paris.