Cyprus Beat

In today’s episode, hundreds of people attended the funeral of the three young men who died in a road traffic accident on Sunday.

Meanwhile, 17 tonnes of humanitarian aid which arrived in Cyprus from Italy will be sent to Gaza as soon as possible through the Israeli port of Ashdod.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, large gaps exist in safety awareness and drivers' "conscience", Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades said on Monday after four people died on the road over the weekend. 

Elsewhere, a total of 469 reports of sexual abuse against children were received in 2023 and 330 by October 2024, Hope for Children CRC Policy Centre said on Monday, the European day for the protection of children against sexual exploitation and sexual abuse.

All this and more in today’s Daily News Briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, intense weather conditions are expected to continue on Sunday into Monday, the fire service said, after storms overnight caused the met office to issue a yellow weather warning.

Elsewhere, three people died on the Dherynia-Frenaros Road on Sunday night, police said in the morning.

Also, Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos will brief his EU counterparts on the latest attempts of Turkey to upgrade the illegal breakaway regime at the Organization of Turkic States.

All this and more in today’s Daily News Briefing brought to you by The Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, around 650 state hospital doctors, set to receive €19.1 million in additional pay to align with private sector earnings, are planning a 48-hour strike later this month, demanding €21.1 million instead. 

Elsewhere, Canadian veterans of the UN peacekeeping mission in Cyprus, known as Operation Snowgoose, returned to the island to mark Unficyp’s 60th anniversary.

Also, a tragic road traffic accident in Larnaca on Wednesday night resulted in the death of 18-year-old Romanian national Iulia Mihaela Vasile.

All this and much more in today’s Daily News Briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, state hospital doctors will be going on a 48-hour strike at the end of the month, trade union Pasyki announced after another failed attempt to clinch a deal with state health services Okypy.

Meanwhile, the termination of the construction contract for the road between Paphos and Polis Chrysochous prompted strong reactions from both Disy and Akel, who blame each other and successive governments for issues affecting major public projects across Cyprus.

Elsewhere, Cyprus Football Association chairman Giorgos Koumas came under heavy criticism after the Cyprus sports writers’ union withdrew an award from a journalist who had uncovered corruption within Cypriot football.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, a six-year jail term for a child rape conviction was “manifestly inadequate” the Supreme Court ruled as it moved to increase the jail time to nine years.

Meanwhile, Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades on Tuesday promised that the highway connecting Paphos and Polis Chrysochous will be ready within the next three years, as local residents questioned the viability of the project after the contract for the first phase of its construction was torn up by the government a day earlier.

Elsewhere, one in three people in Cyprus smoke, multinational tobacco company Philip Morris said on Tuesday presenting the results of its latest survey.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, the transparency commissioner resisted calls for a targeted investigation of former President Nicos Anastasiades regarding the "golden passport" scandal.

Meanwhile, the public works department terminated its contract with Intrakat for the construction of the motorway between Paphos and Polis Chrysochous.

Elsewhere, a British Royal Air Force reservist was sacked after sending pictures of his penis to a woman while in Cyprus.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, Disy is ready to collaborate with President Nikos Christodoulides, party leader Annita Demetriou said.

Meanwhile, a 67-year-old man was seriously injured after his vehicle overturned, and the fire brigade rescued a hunter who had injured himself after falling into a ravine.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, President Nikos Christodoulides met Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan informally in Budapest at the European Political Community (EPC) summit, where they discussed the Cyprus issue.

Elsewhere, for the past four years, the government has been paying €6,000 monthly for autism facilities that remain inactive, the House health committee learned. Due to lack of suitable facilities, individuals with autism are often sent to Athalassa psychiatric hospital, where staff lack autism-specific training.

All this and much more in today’s Daily News Briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, a ruling coalition 'MP' in the north accused the opposition of "illegally occupying" the north's 'parliament'.

Meanwhile, thousands of cars in Cyprus may have defective airbags.

Elsewhere, women in Cyprus are living longer than men.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, the body of a 63-year-old electrician, a Greek Cypriot, was recovered on Monday afternoon following a fire at a polyurethane manufacturing plant in Dromolaxia’s industrial area.

Meanwhile, after severe floods at Paphos General Hospital, the nurses' union Pasyno on Monday condemned the “miserable conditions” in which nurses must work.

Elsewhere, an action plan to ensure state health services (Okypy) are autonomous by 2026 will be submitted to Cabinet imminently, aiming to increase Okypy’s income and reduce its expenses.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, the Paphos general hospital, which flooded during heavy rain on Saturday night, was “built with a lot of shoddy work”, the town’s mayor Phedonas Phedonos said.

Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos pledged to further deepen relations between Cyprus and Qatar after meeting the country’s Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani.

Elsewhere, a body was found in the remains of a polyurethane manufacturing plant in the Larnaca district village of Dromolaxia in which a large fire had broken out.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, Deputy Migration Minister Nicholas Ioannides said a group of migrants stranded in the buffer zone will be relocated "in the next two to three weeks".

Meanwhile, parliament approved amendments increasing penalties for inciting violence or hatred based on sexual orientation or gender identity, and raising the penalty points threshold for a temporary driving licence suspension from 12 to 16.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, United States President Joe Biden on Wednesday said he remains optimistic about the prospect of a solution to the Cyprus problem, following a meeting with President Nikos Christodoulides at the White House.

Elsewhere, former Transport Minister Marios Demetriades and some of his relatives linked to the family law firm have been referred to the criminal court over the golden passport scandal.

All this and more in today’s Daily News Briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, officials on Tuesday reiterated there currently exists no practical way to bring down energy costs, which have a knock-on effect on the prices of goods, as one MP warned that certain segments of the population face “annihilation” due to the high cost of living.

Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos rubbished the idea that diaspora Cypriots in the US could sway the US elections, ahead of a meeting President Nikos Christodoulides was slated to have at the White House with US President Joe Biden.

Elsewhere, the UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus is investigating Monday’s incident in Deneia, where a Turkish army officer allegedly threatened a farmer, while he was tending his field in the buffer zone.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, President Nikos Christodoulides heralded his invitation to meet United States President Joe Biden at the White House.

Meanwhile, a 20-day-old baby died and six more remained in intensive care after being fed ethanol while in hospital.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, President Nikos Christodoulides announced that the government is "very close" to making announcements regarding Cyprus' entry into the US visa waver programme.

Meanwhile, the British bases reported the seizure of 312 illegally trapped blackcaps, or 'ambelopoulia' during checks at crossing points.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, a deal regarding the delivery of the floating storage and re-gasification unit (Fsru) that is part of the liquefied natural gas project at Vasiliko has been reached by the Cyprus government and the Chinese CPP-Metron Consortium, Energy Minister George Papanastasiou announced.

Elsewhere, more than 20 actions worth over €30 million for the Troodos mountain countryside were presented by President Nikos Christodoulides on Tuesday night.

Also, a father from Larnaca on Tuesday claimed that school bullying is the cause behind his son having been hospitalised last week.

All this and much more in today’s Daily News Briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, the police control systems at airports and checkpoints have been restored after the country was targeted by six cyber attacks.

Meanwhile, Disy called for a "holistic" approach to tackling the problem of affordable housing.

Elsewhere, MEP Fidias Panayiotou called for a protest against the government's ban of mobile phones from schools.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou will be travelling to Apia, Samoa for the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting taking place between 21 and 26 October, an announcement said on Sunday.

Elsewhere, Cyprus' government portal was the victim of a cyberattack Sunday but the authorities coped with the incident successfully, the Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy said in a statement.

Also, Firefighters rescued three people stuck in their car at the Larnaca Salt Lake, fire services spokesman Andreas Kettis said on Sunday.

All this and much more in today’s Daily News Briefing brought to you by The Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, all eyes are fixed on whether the two leaders in Cyprus will be willing and able to engage sufficiently to allow an informal five-party meeting with the three guarantor powers to take place in the coming months.

Meanwhile, two new cases involving assaults and robberies against food delivery workers were reported during Tuesday night in Limassol, amid ongoing investigations by the police into similar incidents.

Elsewhere, Labour MP Bambos Charalambous has been elected as the new chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Cyprus in London, following the group’s first general assembly of the new parliamentary term.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, the informal tripartite dinner meeting with the Greek and Turkish Cypriot leaders in New York was described “very good” by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres.

Elsewhere, marketing fresh fruit and vegetables is still “seriously problematic”, with exorbitant retail prices and profits of up to 342 per cent, the Cyprus Consumers Association said on Tuesday.

Also, the state-run company in charge of the liquefied natural gas (LNG) import terminal denied on Tuesday claims that the jetty is at risk due to corrosion, and hinted that ulterior motives might be behind the reports.

All this and much more in todays Daily News Briefing, brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, President Nikos Christodoulides and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer are on the “same page” regarding the solution of the Cyprus problem, that there cannot be a solution outside the agreed framework.

Meanwhile, MPs have criticised the transfer of human trafficking oversight to the deputy ministry of migration, arguing that this issue, which encompasses both foreign and local nationals, should be managed by the justice ministry due to its links to organised crime.

Elsewhere, Paphos Mayor Phedonas Phedonos criticized state welfare services for their chronic inadequacy and illegal operations following a fire at a minor accommodation center.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, Cyprus’ first natural gas extraction will most likely be from the Kronos reservoir in block 6, which may be in 2027, Energy Minister George Papanastasiou said on Sunday.

Meanwhile, President Nikos Christodoulides is travelling to London on Monday after an invitation by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Elsewhere, a delivery driver in Limassol reported getting ambushed by three individuals who attacked him and stole his phone and wallet, police said on Sunday.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, Finance Minister Makis Keravnos announced on Thursday that measures to tackle the high cost of living will be reintroduced, including zero VAT on diapers, baby milk, female hygiene products, and fruits and vegetables

Elsewhere, Newly appointed auditor-general Andreas Papaconstantinou expressed confidence on Thursday that any disagreements with the Law Office would be resolved through dialogue, emphasising the importance of the Audit Office's independence and access to data.

All this and much more in today’s Daily News Briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, a scientist of Cypriot origin has been awarded the 2024 Nobel peace price for chemistry.

Meanwhile, Cyprus was elected to a seat at the United Nations Human Rights Council for the first time.

Elsewhere, more than 2,000 people from 20 different countries have arrived in Cyprus from Lebanon as part of facilitated departures amid the deteriorating political situation in the country.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, the Republic of Cyprus was told on Tuesday to pay around €50,000 in damages to two asylum seekers for degrading treatment and pushback as they sought refuge in Cyprus from Lebanon, in a European Court of Human Rights ruling.

Meanwhile, the first West Nile virus case seen in Cyprus this year has been detected in an elderly man from Mammari village.

Elsewhere, a total of 1,550 people, primarily from third countries, had left Lebanon via Cyprus by Tuesday since the start of assisted departures on September 27.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, President Nikos Christodoulides is in a “position of strength” ahead of his informal dinner with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar, government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said on Monday.

Meanwhile, ongoing and unacceptable dangers faced by their staff are a grave issue, nurses’ union Pasyno said, laying the blame with the ministries of labour and justice as well as the police and state health services.

Elsewhere, a school facility in Larnaca intended to be used as temporary accommodation for foreign nationals fleeing from Lebanon was hit by racist vandals.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, a European Court of Justice ruling has scuppered Cyprus' plans to declare parts of Syria as safe, with a view to returning migrants to those parts of Syria.

Meanwhile, Mehmet Tulek, whose daughter Asya was one of the 24 Cypriot children who were killed when the Isias hotel in the southeastern Turkish city of Adiyaman collapsed during last year's earthquakes, expressed fears over the ongoing court case regarding the hotel's collapse.

Elsewhere, Cyprus became a full member of the International Organisation of La Francophonie.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, a Lockheed C-130 aircraft provided by the Greek Defence Ministry arrived at Larnaca airport on Thursday, facilitating the evacuation of Cypriot citizens from Lebanon.

Elsewhere, the European Commission has sued Cyprus for failing to implement an EU directive mandating a global minimum corporate tax rate.

Also, two-thirds of swimming pools in Cyprus operate without proper licenses, according to MPs during a discussion at the House interior committee on Thursday.

All this and much more in today’s Daily News Briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, the government on Wednesday was bracing for heightened security measures as an all-out war in Middle East loomed, prompting diplomats to flee Beirut in boats docking in Cyprus.

Meanwhile, Cyprus was the likely launchpad for the military support offered by the United Kingdom to defend Israel from a volley of Iranian missiles launched on Tuesday evening.

Elsewhere, after months of wrangling, three Osiou Avakoum monks were defrocked by the Holy Synod, a decision the clerics decried as unfair and said they would sue.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, President Nikos Christodoulides fired his police chief.

Meanwhile, hundreds of demonstrators lined up outside the Akrotiri base to protest the ongoing killing in Gaza.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, the government on Wednesday said it was at its highest level of preparedness for evacuations from the region, as Britain announced 700 troops were being deployed to Cyprus to help UK nationals leave Lebanon.

Meanwhile, President Nikos Christodoulides addressed the 79th United Nations General Assembly, focusing on Cyprus’ role in promoting peace in the Eastern Mediterranean, condemning ongoing conflicts, and highlighting the persistent division of Cyprus.

Elsewhere, members of the House ethics committee heard that four cases related to revenue from money laundering are currently before the criminal court.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, President Nikos Christodoulides appointed Andreas Papaconstantinou as the new auditor-general.

Meanwhile, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said the federal model for a solution to the Cyprus problem has "completely lost its validity".

Elsewhere, Christodoulides' favourability ratings are now lower than those of late President Demetris Christofias in the immediate aftermath of the Mari disaster, according to a new poll.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, Diko MP Zacharias Koulias’ plan to appoint a new auditor-general as acting president was thwarted by House President Annita Demetriou, who cancelled her overseas trip to prevent his move.

Meanwhile, the number of migrants arriving in Cyprus through irregular means has significantly dropped in 2024, with just over 5,000 arrivals compared to nearly 11,000 last year.

Elsewhere, heavy rain caused traffic chaos in Nicosia on Monday afternoon, stranding cars in Strovolos and Engomi due to flash floods.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, thousands of people gathered on Sunday to protest former Auditor-General Odysseas Michaelides’ dismissal by the Supreme Constitutional Court.

Elsewhere, ten suspects were charged on Sunday for rioting outside Alphamega stadium in Limassol ahead of a scheduled Ael-Apollon match.

Also, port police rescued a British couple in Limassol from the sea on Sunday, after the pair fought.

All this and much more in today’s Daily News Briefing, brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, legal experts have labelled the dismissal of Odysseas Michaelides as auditor-general a landmark case in Cypriot justice. Lawyer Achilleas Emilianides called the ruling harsh, portraying Michaelides as one of the worst officials ever, despite his ten years of service.

Elsewhere, President Nikos Christodoulides and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis reaffirmed their commitment to the electricity interconnector project during a meeting in Athens.

Also, Cyprus' first national cybersecurity exercise, CyberCyprus 2024, was hailed as a success, marking a key step in bolstering the country's defenses against cyber threats.

All this and much more in today’s Daily News Briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, Attorney-General Odysseas Michaelides was fired.

Outside court, he said the system has "successfully beheaded me", and claimed there had been a coordinated effort by Cyprus' establishment to have him removed from his position.

Elsewhere, the now-infamous Cyprus Health and Social Sciences University in Morphou was paying invoices to a student recruitment agency for students who did not exist, according to witness testimony in court.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, the government greenlit Cyprus' participation in the Great Sea Interconnector.

Meanwhile, revenue generated from gambling in 2023 exceeded €1 billion.

Elsewhere, the British bases' environmental experts recorded a total of 382 sea turtles on their beaches this year.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, President Nikos Christodoulides on Monday said the Cyprus Football Association (CFA) should take responsibility over the violence which unfolded ahead of an Ael-Apollon match on Sunday and not try to hide behind their powers allowing them to run their own house.

Meanwhile, intense discussions are set to take place on Tuesday regarding the Cyprus-Greece electricity interconnector, with the Council of Ministers set to meet at 11.30am ahead of a crucial meeting between President Nikos Christodoulides and Greek Prime Minister Kyriacos Mitsotakis on Thursday

Elsewhere, the cause of death of 43-year-old Alkis Michael, who died early on Sunday morning while driving away from the Limassol general hospital, has been preliminarily identified as a heart attack, pending final histopathological results.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, “exemplary” punishment will be meted out to four men who were arrested after serious incidents of football violence at the Ael-Apollo match in Limassol, Justice Minister Marios Hartsiotis said on Monday.

Meanwhile, Cyprus ‘had no other choice’ but to bring in US experts to help with corruption-related investigations, President Nikos Christodoulides said on Sunday, as he announced a designated budget would go towards rebranding the country’s image abroad.

Elsewhere, dozens of blood transfusions to thalassemia patients were postponed due to low reserves in Cyprus’ blood bank.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, Turkey condemned this week's signing of a roadmap to boost two-way defence cooperation between the United States and the Republic of Cyprus.

Meanwhile, President Nikos Christodoulides spoke of "progress" between Cyprus and Greece regarding the Great Sea Interconnector.

Elsewhere, Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou said dangerous buildings are "a thorn in the government's side".

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, United States sanctions imposed on entities and individuals on Cyprus are not targeting the country but oligarchs and arms traders who enable Russia to continued to waging its war in Ukraine.

Meanwhile, the supreme constitutional court rejected an appeal filed by a Syrian businessman against the revocation of his Cypriot citizenship after his name appeared on a European Union list of financiers of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, in between performing the largest concerts the island has ever seen, music superstar Ed Sheeran visited the British base of Dhekelia where he met forces personnelle and every gave an intimate performance on a beach there.

Meanwhile, MPs were apparently shocked to hear the government’s proposal that currently serving state officials would be allowed to continue to get a pension while still drawing a salary.

Elsewhere, Limassol general hospital is set for a €23 million facelift, which will see its A&E department expanded, new units set up and its overall space renovated.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, the eagerly-awaited meeting, which will help the government decided whether to give the green light to the Great Sea Interconnector project, will be held at the presidential palace today.

Elsewhere, parties and deputies tabled 11 different bills at the House finance committee on Monday, all aimed at regulating the payment of multiple pensions to some state officials.

Also, the deputy ministry of research, innovation and digital policy violated the law in the way it ‘appointed’ companies to implement the ‘e-wallet’ service, an audit office report said on Monday.

All this and much more in today’s Daily News Briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, President Nikos Christodoulides is to meet with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on September 23, according to reports.

Meanwhile, television series Famagusta’s director Andreas Georgiou said the message the series was intended to convey was “to love each other”.

Elsewhere, villagers from the Limassol district on Saturday staged a protest against motorcyclists speeding along the road between the villages of Trimiklini and Ayia Eirini.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, the auditor-general's office currently cannot determine the full extent of Covid-19 benefit funds given to ineligible applicants.

Meanwhile, the government postponed its decision on the regulatory framework for the Great Sea Interconnector project to next Tuesday.

Elsewhere, the Immovable Property Commission has settled a total of 1,840 cases so far, Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar said.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, cabinet’s final decision over the regulatory framework of the leg of the Great Sea Interconnector project which runs between Crete and Cyprus was delayed for another day, with an extraordinary cabinet meeting now scheduled for Thursday.

Meanwhile, pharmacies across Cyprus are threatening to close on holidays and nights starting October 1 due to disputes over working hours. The issue arises from a court’s interim order allowing

Elsewhere, a two-year-old girl in Limassol remains intubated at Makario hospital with a brain haemorrhage after being hit by a car on Makarios Avenue.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, a massive volume of evidence has been gathered by investigators looking into the suspicious naturalisation of foreign investors, with the fourth case alone – involving former Transport Minister Marios Demetriades – filling 200 box files.

Elsewhere, the Committee on Missing Persons has identified 52 per cent of the remains of those missing, Turkish Cypriot member of the committee Hakki Muftuzade said on Tuesday.

All this and much more in today’s Daily News Briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, former Transport Minister in the Anastasiades government Marios Demetriades has been charged in the golden passports scandal, for offences related to corruption, bribery and money laundering.

Meanwhile, Health Minister Michael Damianos on Monday hailed the finding of eight kidney cross-transplant pairs between Cyprus and Israel.

Elsewhere, Netflix’s decision to air the series Famagusta led to a spat between Turkey and Greece, with high-ranking government figures from both countries expressing their views.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, stakeholders in the Aphrodite natural gas field submitted to the government a new development plan for the field.

Meanwhile, Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar was outraged over streaming service Netflix's decision to show the television series 'Famagusta'.

Elsewhere, Education Minister Athena Michaelidou said this school year will "certainly be better than previous ones because the government is implementing its goals".

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, cabinet approved a bill which will create the role of a "patient advocate".

Meanwhile, Cyprus expressed satisfaction with the outcome of informal discussions between European Union foreign ministers and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan.

Elsewhere, a pitbull which mauled its owner was shot dead by its owner's neighbour.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, Cyprus’ authorities “have not seen” the financing plan for the Great Sea Interconnector project, the finance ministry’s permanent secretary George Panteli said.

Elsewhere, Police announced the arrest for sexual crimes of the 64-year-old man involved in the Limassol investigation, which had started off last week with the man reporting to authorities that he had been robbed by teens.

All this and much more in today’s Daily News Briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, a total of 184 deaths in Cyprus have been attributed to drug overdoses since 2004, data released by the Cyprus National Addictions Authority (NAAC) shows.

Meanwhile, around 20,000 hunters went out on Sunday, the first day of the pheasant hunting season, game fund spokesman Petros Anayiotos said on Tuesday.

Elsewhere, the police force said it is seeking to purchase two additional water cannon vehicles to strengthen the force’s anti-riot capacity during incidents of football fan brawls outside stadiums and other violent group altercations.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, Cyprus has seen the second largest drop in the number of firefighters within its ranks across 12 European Union member states.

Meanwhile, 94 people have been arrested so far this year in connection with human smuggling offences.

Elsewhere, over 100 British medical personnel have been deployed to the British bases in Cyprus as the United Kingdom prepares for possible evacuations from Lebanon.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, the Green Party said it had written to Auditor-General Odysseas Michaelides, calling on him to investigate a property accused of breaching environmental regulations.

Meanwhile, the reference point for the Cyprus problem is now the United Nations General Assembly, Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos said.

Elsewhere, a 10-year-old British girl who was found unconscious in a hotel swimming pool is in a critical condition.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, a private construction project by a well-connected Greek Cypriot architect has sparked protests after appropriating a waterfall on Kryos Potamos, a Troodos river known for the Caledonian and Millomeri falls.

Meanwhile, the government has urged the Electricity Authority to implement immediate measures to reduce the risk of fires caused by faulty equipment or power cables.

Elsewhere, since April, the British bases have issued €8,700 in fines for the illegal use of hunting dogs in game reserve areas, emphasising a strict zero-tolerance policy.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, the Cyprus government and the Turkish Cypriot leadership are in a furious row over a decision by tour operator Tui to stop daytrips to the north, with Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar gearing up to open hotels in Varosha in retaliation.

Meanwhile, Limassol police are investigating an assault and theft involving a 64-year-old man who was allegedly lured to the scene by a young girl.

Elsewhere, Cyprus will be participating in Junior Eurovision 2024 with 11-year-old Maria Pissarides. The contest will be taking place in Madrid on November 16, 2024.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, up to 100,000 people could be evacuated from Lebanon through Cyprus, Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos said.

Meanwhile, the number of migrants stranded in the buffer zone has reached 86.

Elsewhere, Turkish Cypriots have reacted angrily to a reported deal struck between the Republic of Cyprus and tour operators to cut the number of overseas tourists visiting the north while on holiday in Cyprus.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, the government will nominate Costas Kadis to be European Commissioner.

Meanwhile, Greek doctors are seeking work in Cyprus' Gesy.

Elsewhere, a man was fined €23,500 after being found trying to trap mouflon in snares with the aim of selling them on.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, a teenager currently being held on remand for a double murder in Limassol last month has reportedly admitted to the killing, Limassol District Court heard on Sunday.

Elsewhere, bread sold as wholemeal may not be, chairman of the House environment committee Charalambos Theopemptou has said.

Also,with its political and economic tools, the EU can help break the deadlock on Cyprus talks, Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades said on Sunday.

In today’s episode, Ahmet Tugcu, the leader of the north's electricity authority Kib-Tek's employees' trade union El-Sen, was arrested and then released as chaos ensued over late-night attempts to fix faulty machinery at the Teknecik power station near Kyrenia.

Meanwhile, a 25-year-old Israeli national appeared in court over an ongoing investigation into alleged misuse of Greek Cypriot property in the north.

Elsewhere, police in Kyrenia arrested two would-be hitmen, with the pair having allegedly travelled to the north to kill a "businessman".

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, the 64-officer mission set to fly to Greece in the early hours of Tuesday has been called off.

Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said the Greek government has changed its request to the EU civil protection mechanism and now is asking for land and air support.

Meanwhile, Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar pilloried Nicosia for actions he said put the entire island's security at risk amid rising tensions in the Middle East, even accusing President Nikos Christodoulides of "placing his personal reputation" above all else.

Elsewhere, a group of around 60 delivery drivers from different companies gathered near Limassol’s old port on Monday to protest against the recent wave of violence against them.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, a series of events and memorial services were held to commemorate the 28th anniversary of the deaths of Tasos Isaac and Solomos Solomou, who were killed during demonstrations in the buffer zone in 1996, as well as the Helios air disaster, which occurred in 2005.

Meanwhile, Cyprus "has a duty to help" in the evacuation of European Union and third countries' citizens from crisis areas in the region, Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas said.

Elsewhere, the Cypriot foreign ministry said it was "appalled" by the Israeli bombing of the Tabeen school in Gaza City.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, people living in the buffer zone called the fence stretching across the Green Line "useless".

Meanwhile, Cyprus will respond to the European Commission's request to be refunded the €69m in grants for the LNG project by the first week of September.

Elsewhere, a six-year-old child was left alone on a bus for around an hour after falling asleep on a school trip.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, Cypriot dinghy sailor Pavlos Kontides won a silver medal at the Olympic Games on Wednesday, finishing second in the medal race in the French city of Marseille to secure overall second place behind Australian Matt Wearn.

Meanwhile, the government is being sued for migrant pushbacks over the dozens of asylum seekers still stranded in the buffer zone.

Elsewhere, the state health services organisation and doctors failed to reach an agreement after a mammoth meeting on Wednesday to discuss pay incentives for state hospital doctors.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, a police officer facing trial for rape and domestic violence has won an appeal that means he will be released from custody on bail.

Elsewhere, Germany was preparing to evacuate thousands of its nationals from Lebanon and elsewhere in the Middle East via Cyprus, amid concerns over an escalation of the conflict between Israel and Iran.

Also, three men were found guilty on Tuesday of 17 charges each in relation to the murder of Turkish Cypriot businessman Halil Falyaliand his chauffeur Murat Demirtas in February 2022.

All this and much more in today’s Daily News Briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, President Nikos Christodoulides was not “invited” to a tripartite meeting with Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar and United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on August 13 but “sounded out” over such a meeting, government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said on Monday.

Meanwhile, far-right British fugitive Tommy Robinson is currently on holiday in Cyprus, staying at a holiday village near Cape Greco. He is the subject of an outstanding arrest warrant in the UK after failing to attend court in relation to a previous case against him.

Elsewhere, dogs are to be stationed in the departure lounge at Larnaca airport with the aim of both calming nervous flyers and encouraging adoptions from dog shelters.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, President Nikos Christodoulides was not "invited" to a tripartite meeting with Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar and United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on August 13 but "sounded out" over such a meeting, government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said.

Meanwhile, police arrested the mother of a three-month-old baby who died of malnourishment and neglect last week.

Elsewhere, President Nikos Christodoulides said there would be "no coverup" in the ongoing investigations related to the failure of the project to build a liquefied natural gas terminal at Vasiliko.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, Cyprus is continuing pushbacks, it emerged on Thursday, even attempting to send migrants who arrived by sea into the buffer zone.

Meanwhile, a European arrest warrant has been issued for the mother of a three-month-old infant who died in horrific conditions, infested with insect bites and severely malnourished.

Elsewhere, 43 per cent of Cypriots believe the rise of Elam is “dangerous for democracy” while 58 per cent said there was a need for new parties, according to a survey conducted by consultancy group Cypronetwork.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, the three-month of child who died in the Nicosia general hospital appears to have been "left to its fate" and was in a terrible state.

Meanwhile, murder seems to be the most likely scenario in the case of the two burned bodies found in a burning car.

Elsewhere, prices of fruit and vegetables at Cyprus' supermarkets are "unfair both on producers and consumers", Cyprus Consumers' Association chairman Marios Drousiotis said.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, there are over 14,000 pending asylum-seeker applications from Syrian nationals waiting to be assessed, the UNHCR confirmed on Tuesday as the EU Commission said any efforts to return Syrians to their home country must be done under the watch of the UN.

Meanwhile, police on Tuesday were investigating an incident during which hooded men climbed up traffic cameras in Limassol and spray painted their lense.

Elsewhere, the presidential palace coughed up almost €60,000 on catering and restaurants in 2023.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, the government is ready to help with a possible impending evacuation of Lebanon, Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos said on Monday.

Elsewhere, the government has managed to buy time to offer explanations to the EU commission over the LNG project fiasco, Energy Minister George Papanastasiou said on Monday.

Also, the Cyprus Consumers Association has reported a significant increase in retail prices for fresh fruit and vegetables compared to producer prices with retailers the big winners.

All this and much more in today’s Daily News Briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, a 36-year-old was remanded in custody after he was found with a 40-kilogram stash of cannabis.

Meanwhile, a 32-year-old man was arrested while sitting at a supermarket cafe with a knife which appeared to have spots of blood on it.

Elsewhere, hospitals are on standby to deal with cases of Covid-19.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, the European public prosecutor's office opened an investigation into Cyprus' Vasiliko liquefied natural gas import terminal over potential procurement fraud, misappropriation of European Union funds, and corruption.

Meanwhile, Cyprus is "interested" in the role of a European Commissioner for the Mediterranean.

Elsewhere, a sex tape was "illegally" shot at the ancient theatre of Kourion.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, the hearing for a judicial review filed by former state pathologist Panicos Stavrianos at the Supreme Court began with accusations of conflict of interest against the state legal services, over the death inquiry which ruled that guardsman Thanasis Nicolaou was murdered.

Meanwhile, Sigma TV chief executive officer Chrysanthos Tsouroullis briefly had his X account locked after “doxing” a well-known parody account on the platform which goes by the name “Jho Low”.

Elsewhere, the K-Cineplex cinema at the Mall of Cyprus closed for good. The cinema had been open for 17 years.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, passenger complaints about poor treatment by airlines are at an all-time high, the Cyprus consumers association said on Tuesday.

Elsewhere, plain clothes officers are patrolling the island’s beaches as dozens of thefts have been reported by beachgoers, police spokesman Christos Andreou said on Tuesday.

Also, football’s governing body in Cyprus unveiled on Tuesday tougher sanctions on clubs found guilty of fan disturbance or violence for the 2024-2025 season, when supporters will again be allowed to attend away games.

All this and so much more in today’s Daily News Briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, the Chinese CPP-Metron Consortium Ltd (CMC) should never have been awarded the Vasiliko liquified natural gas (LNG) project President Nikos Christodoulides said on Monday, as damning statements of blame continued over the sunken deal.

Elsewhere, a 50-year struggle to see stolen antiquities returned to the island has finally come to a close, the director of the antiquities department said on Monday at a ceremony to open an exhibition of some of the items.

All this and much more in today’s Daily News Briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, the construction of the liquefied natural gas terminal in Vasilikos will proceed and be completed despite the withdrawal of the Chinese consortium of companies from the project, Energy Minister George Papanastasiou assured on Sunday.

Meanwhile, Cyprus “will likely take crucial and bold decisions” in the coming months, President Nikos Christodoulides said on Saturday night speaking before an event at the presidential palace to mark 50 years since the Turkish invasion.

Elsewhere, as the hot summer continues unabated in Cyprus, the Water Department said the islands dams are only 36.8 per cent full, a result also of slow inflow during a dry winter.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, after endless wrangling, the Vasiliko liquified natural gas (LNG) project was pronounced dead on Thursday by the Chinese-led construction firm CPP-Metron Consortium Ltd (CMC).

Elsewhere, the government on Thursday signed an agreement granting all workers in the central government and the broader public sector a 1.5 per cent rise on their base salary – the first such across-the-board increase since 2009.

Also, the number of British tourists travelling to the north has halved since 2023, according to reports published on Wednesday.

In today’s episode,hundreds of ‘trapped buyers’ of property may never receive title deeds, as their purchases are tied to developers’ mortgages on buildings ridden with irregularities.

Elsewhere, disgraced United States Senator Bob Menendez is to be stripped of his honorary citizenship of Paphos, the town’s mayor Phedon Phedonos said on Wednesday.

Also, the health ministry and the Health Insurance Organisation have prepared a plan to incentivise gynaecologists and obstetricians to perform natural births instead of caesarean sections.

All this and much more in today’s Daily News Briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, three party leaders announced they do not have any personal vehicles in their wealth declarations for 2024.

Meanwhile, Auditor-General Odysseas Michaelides said Attorney-General George Savvides has been "threatening [him] with dismissal for months".

Elsewhere, the north's 'education ministry' reacted with "deep sorrow and concern" over images drawn by children depicting Turkey's invasion of the island in 1974.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, the Supreme Court ruled that former state pathologist Panicos Stavrianos may file a case to annul a court ruling which found national guardsman Thanasis Nicolaou, who died in 2005, was strangled to death.

Meanwhile, Cyprus spent a total of €44.4 million on hosting Ukrainian refugees in 2022 and 2023.

Elsewhere, a drone illegally delivered two packages into the central prison.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, after three years of debate in committee, parliament on Thursday voted through tweaks to the legislation governing wealth declarations, of capital statements filed by state officials and Politically Exposed Persons.

Elsewhere, President Nikos Christodoulides lamented “tragic mistakes” made by the state on the 13th anniversary of the Mari explosion, which killed 13, on Thursday.

Energy Minister George Papanastasiou on Thursday took formal delivery of a cost-benefit analysis for the Great Sea Interconnector project – the mooted subsea electric cable linking Cyprus to Greece.

All this and much more in today’s Daily News Briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, the Cyprus Mail were granted access on Wednesday to the 37 asylum seekers (25 here, 12 more in Akaki) who’ve been stranded in the buffer zone for weeks – in some cases, since May 15.

Elsewhere, the international community is inching closer towards giving up on hopes of solving the Cyprus problem on the basis of a bizonal, bicommunal federation, Disy leader Annita Demetriou said in a letter penned to President Nikos Christodoulides on Wednesday.

All this and much more in today’s Daily News Briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, the contract between the state Natural gas infrastructure company (Etyfa) and the CPP-Metron Consortium (CMC) is headed for termination.

Meanwhile, Cyprus and the FBI are to work together on clearing Cyprus' name in relation to the citizenship by investment programme.

Elsewhere, the electricity authority (EAC) must "change" to be a competitive organisation by the time the electricity market opens up, Energy Minister George Papanastasiou said.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, mixed reactions followed the open letter published over the weekend by United Nations envoy Maria Angela Holguin.

Meanwhile, there has been a steep rise in domestic violence cases.

Elsewhere, Cyprus will "wield its diplomatic tools" over the recent Organisation of Turkic States (OTS) meeting, to which Ersin Tatar was invited.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, police arrested a 49-year-old woman on Sunday, as a suspect for promoting property sales in the north on Greek Cypriot land.

Meanwhile, an open letter by UN Secretary General personal envoy for Cyprus Maria Angela Holguin was seen as an encouraging message by Nicosia, according to government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis.

Elsewhere, the met office issued a yellow weather warning for Sunday night through Monday 5pm, due to high temperatures expected to affect the island.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his strong concerns over the "significant" militarisation of the buffer zone.

Meanwhile, European Union funding to support the north has reached a total of €688 million since 2006.

Elsewhere, vaping may be responsible for reduced IQs.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, Italian energy giant Eni is reportedly considering divesting from specific projects, including Cyprus, but Nicosia on Wednesday said they had so far received no information.

Meanwhile, a 17-year-old boy suffering from what turned out to be acute appendicitis was subjected to a nightmarish ordeal for over 24 hours, before finally getting the surgery he urgently needed.

Elsewhere, an amended plan to address declining fertility was approved on Wednesday by the cabinet, including increased allowances and setting women’s upper age limit for aided reproduction at 53, from the previous 50.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, President Nikos Christodoulides said he remains hopeful United Nations envoy Maria Angela Holguin would continue her efforts despite her finding no common ground between Cyprus' two sides.

Meanwhile, there will be "disastrous consequences" if the war in the Middle East spreads to Lebanon, Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos said.

Elsewhere, a British Cypriot candidate in the United Kingdom's imminent general election has been accused of "defending Adolf Hitler" on social media.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, the UN Special Representative for Cyprus and head of Unficyp Colin Stewart said on Monday that he is concerned over increased militarisation of the buffer zone, seemingly called by the stalled political process towards Cyprus talks.

Elsewhere, the first planning permit was issued on Monday through the fresh district organisation umbrella system, which ushered in a new era for local administration.

Also, the planned 48-hour strike by public hospital doctors scheduled to take place from Tuesday to Thursday has been called off following extensive discussions between the doctors’ unions, the state health services organisation (Okypy) andintervention from President Nikos Christodoulides.

All this and much more in today’s Daily News Briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, a group of Cypriot students on a school trip to Switzerland have become stranded after heavy rainfall cut off the village they are staying in.
Elsewhere, Britain has used RAF Akrotiri to send over 80 military transport planes to Beirut since the bombing of Gaza began, the Declassified UK website has reported.

Also, the health minister has called on doctors set to strike this coming week to think of the consequences of their actions.

All this and much more in today’s Daily News Briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, the European People’s Party has included the Cyprus problem in its list of top 10 priorities, President Nikos Christodoulides announced in Brussels on Thursday, amid a flurry of meetings linked to the Cyprus problem, top EU posts and the Middle East.

Elsewhere, the council of ministers decided on the retraction of two more “golden passports” issued to Russian oligarchs, it emerged on Thursday.

Also, the hearing for Auditor-General Odysseas Michaelides’ dismissal was postponed on Thursday, as an expert witness from Intosai (International Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions) was unable to attend the court session.

All this and much more in today’s Daily News Briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, a ship was loaded with 2,000 pallets of humanitarian aid and expected to sail on Wednesday from Larnaca port to the US-built pier in Gaza, amid growing concerns for the project’s viability and a lawlessness on the ground which is hampering humanitarian efforts.

Elsewhere, Hezbollah’s threats are not in touch with reality as Cyprus’ role in Gaza is strictly humanitarian, Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos stressed on Wednesday in a press conference with US ambassador Julie Fisher.

All this and much more in today’s Daily News Briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, President Nikos Christodoulides on Tuesday said he would not engage in a public debate with Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan over allegations Cyprus is an “operation centre” for Israel’s war in Gaza.

Elsewhere, three Cypriot newspapers, including the Cyprus Mail, featured on a list of EU media outlets that Russia’s foreign ministry on Tuesday said it was banning access to inside the Russian Federation.

Also, a 32-year-old illegal resident was remanded for six days on Tuesday in connection with the fire that broke out on Monday in Anogyra, as authorities said children setting off fireworks caused the Trimiklini fire on the same day.

All this and much more in today’s Daily News Briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, police arrested a 32-year-old man for recording swimmers in Larnaca, it emerged on Monday.

Elsewhere, flights to Larnaca airport were delayed due to a power outage in Manchester, which affected several flights on Monday.

Also, an Israeli media outlet on Monday had listed four locations that Hezbollah could attack in Cyprus, should the country actively support Israeli military strikes in Gaza conflict.

All this and much more in today’s Daily News Briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today’s episode, hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah’s threat to consider Cyprus as a “part of the war” should it continue to allow Israel to use its airports and bases for military exercises garnered a generally muted reaction from leadership figures in the world and in Cyprus.

In other news, the fire brigade’s budget for 2024 is €12 million higher than it was last year, Public Order Minister Marios Hartsiotis said on Thursday.

Elsewhere, the fines for certain traffic violations, particularly for running a red light, have been substantially lowered under a bill passed by the House on Thursday.

All this and much more in today’s Daily News Briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.

In today's episode, the head of Lebanon’s Hezbollah Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah threatened Cyprus for the first time on Wednesday, saying Hezbollah could consider it “a part of the war” if it continued to allow Israel to use its airports and bases for military exercises.

Meanwhile, the Cypriot government is in the “final stage” of its quest to secure visa-free travel for its citizens to the United States.

Elsewhere, Deputy Migration Minister Nicholas Ioannides officially assumed his role with President Nikos Christodoulides highlighting that Ioannides is taking on one of Europe’s biggest challenges.

All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.