Flights cancelled, diverted to Cyprus
Fact: Flights from Cyprus to Israel on Sunday morning have been cancelled by TUS Air, El Al, and Isr Air.
air
Britain says RAF jets deployed to intercept any airborne attacks in Middle east
British Royal Air Force jets in the Middle East will intercept any airborne attacks within range of existing missions, as required, in response to increased Iranian threats and the growing risk of escalation in the region. The UK dispatched RAF jets to intercept Iranian drones attacking Israel, following Iran’s vow of retaliation for an alleged Israeli strike on its Damascus consulate. Israel and Jordan closed their airspace, while Syria put its defence systems on high alert. Tensions in the region have escalated, with the Gaza war spreading to other fronts and threatening to result in direct conflict between Iran and its allies against Israel and the US.
Iran launches drone attack at Israel, expected to unfold ‘over hours’
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps launched drones and missiles at Israel, potentially escalating tensions. The U.S. has pledged to support Israel. Israel’s military is on high alert, preparing for potential attacks. Iran has vowed retaliation for an alleged Israeli strike on its consulate. The situation threatens to escalate into a direct conflict between Iran and its allies against Israel and the U.S. Iran also seized a Portuguese-flagged ship, prompting accusations of piracy from Israel.
UK reportedly dispatches jets from Akrotiri in defence of Israel against Iran
British fighter jets took off from RAF Akrotiri in Limassol to defend Israel against an Iranian drone attack.
Govt to continue forest fire fighting measures
Fact: Deforestation and the uncontrolled use of forests have led to an alarming decline in the number of trees worldwide, causing the climate crisis to worsen.
Russian armoured assaults ramp up pressure on Ukraine’s east, army chief says
The situation on the eastern front in Ukraine has worsened, with Russia intensifying its armoured assaults and battles for control of a village near Bakhmut. Vital U.S. military aid expected by Kyiv remains stuck in Congress. Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi stated that Russian forces were taking losses but also making tactical gains. Ukraine’s military is facing challenges and is calling for better training for soldiers. Ukraine’s parliament passed a bill to overhaul how civilians are drafted into the armed forces, with the draft age lowered to 25.
Cyprus , ‘well below’ EU renewable energy target
– Cyprus’ contribution to the EU renewable energy target is below that required by EU legislation.
– The EU Commissioner for the Environment, Oceans, and Fisheries, Virginijus Sinkevicius, stated that Cyprus has taken significant steps towards implementing green reforms and investments.
– There is untapped potential for renewable energy in Cyprus.
– The updated national Recovery and Resilience Plan is important for accelerating the use of renewable energy in Cyprus.
– Sinkevicius highlighted Cyprus’ failures in Natura 2000 areas and the EU’s decision to take the country to the EU Court of Justice.
– He emphasized the need for appropriate measures in areas of conservation.
– Sinkevicius mentioned that environmental protection and development of tourism should not be contradictory goals.
– The EU supports bi-communal cooperation on the environment in Cyprus through technical support, funding, and projects with an environmental footprint that benefit both sides.
– Sinkevicius discussed the EU’s role in preventing wildfires, reforestation policies, air pollution, and dealing with the increase of dust storms in Cyprus.
Environment commissioner advocates rooftop gardens
Fact: Environment Commissioner Antonia Theodosiou suggested creating more rooftop gardens to help mitigate the effects of urban heat islands caused by concrete cities.
Israeli defence minister says a direct Iranian attack would require appropriate response
Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant stated that Israel would respond directly to any attack by Iran. The United States has expressed its commitment to Israel’s security against threats from Iran and its proxies. The U.S. also expects an attack by Iran against Israel, but one that would not lead to war. Army General Michael “Erik” Kurilla is visiting Israel to discuss current security threats. The White House has warned Iran not to escalate further in the region following an air strike against an Iranian military commander in Damascus.
Netanyahu says Israel preparing for scenarios in other areas than Gaza
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel is prepared to meet all security needs defensively and offensively. Israel is bracing for possible Iranian retaliation for the killing of senior Iranian commanders. Israeli troops and warplanes started an operation in central Gaza, aiming to destroy armed Palestinian groups’ infrastructure. Fighting has continued in various areas of Gaza, with many civilians feeling the impact of the conflict.