Israel

160 hotels in Cyprus to be affected by FTI closure

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160 hotels in Cyprus to be affected by FTI closure

Approximately 30,000 tourists who were expected to visit Cyprus are impacted by the bankruptcy filing of travel provider FTI. This affects around 160 hotels and other businesses in Cyprus that collaborated with the Group. Bookings made through FTI are being cancelled, with efforts to cover part of the trips still underway. The impact on the tourism industry in Cyprus is significant due to various challenges the industry is facing, such as the war in Israel, economic recession in the UK, upcoming elections in the UK, the European Championship, and the Olympic Games.

Gaza aid loaded in Cyprus as US repairs broken pier

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Gaza aid loaded in Cyprus as US repairs broken pier

Humanitarian aid for Gaza collected in Cyprus is being loaded onto ships for delivery once a temporary pier in Israel is repaired. The United States is also working to recover two grounded vessels near the damaged pier. Repair efforts are underway, and the U.S. remains committed to ensuring aid reaches Gaza as soon as possible.

UN experts urge all states to recognise Palestine

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UN experts urge all states to recognise Palestine

A group of United Nations experts are urging countries to recognize a Palestinian state to help achieve peace in the Middle East. Spain, Ireland, and Norway have officially recognized a Palestinian state, angering Israel. The experts believe recognizing Palestine is crucial for lasting peace and security in the region. Israel has faced isolation after months of conflict in Gaza, with the 7th October attack being the deadliest in its history.

Rafah crossing can’t reopen unless Israel leaves Gaza, Egypt says

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Rafah crossing can’t reopen unless Israel leaves Gaza, Egypt says

The Rafah border crossing cannot operate unless Israel returns control to the Palestinians, according to Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry. Israel took over the crossing last month during its offensive against Hamas in Rafah, which serves as the only connection to the outside world for Gaza’s residents. Shoukry emphasized the importance of the 1979 Egyptian-Israeli peace treaty for regional security and stability. Egypt suggested European monitors at the border if Palestinian authorities resume control. Israel is attempting to destroy tunnels between Gaza and Egypt used by Hamas, but Egypt denies their existence. Shoukry urged Hamas and Israel to accept a ceasefire proposal from U.S. President Joe Biden. Israel has accepted the framework deal for ending the Gaza war but believes it requires more work.

Recognition “victory for Palestinian rights,” Palestine’s FM tells Phileleftheros

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Recognition “victory for Palestinian rights,” Palestine’s FM tells Phileleftheros

Recognizing the State of Palestine is fully in line with international law and UN resolutions, serving as an opportunity to revive the peace process between the two sides, according to Palestine’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, Dr Varsen Aghabekian Shahin. This recognition empowers the Palestinian government to fulfill its duties and address the daily needs of its citizens.

Mediators call on Israel and Hamas to accept the ceasefire agreement

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Mediators call on Israel and Hamas to accept the ceasefire agreement

Countries mediating ceasefire negotiations, including Qatar, the USA, and Egypt, called on Israel and Hamas to finalize an agreement based on a plan presented by US President Joe Biden. The plan includes a three-phase approach to achieve a permanent ceasefire, with conditions such as the release of hostages and the withdrawal of troops. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated his government’s conditions for a ceasefire, including the destruction of Hamas and the release of all hostages. Hamas responded cautiously, demanding the withdrawal of Israeli troops before agreeing to a ceasefire. Netanyahu faces pressure from both right-wing ministers and Israeli citizens demanding the return of hostages.

What, ’s going on with public contracts?

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What, ’s going on with public contracts?

The Cyprus government has scrapped a €1.2 billion concession for the development of the Larnaca marina and port, leading to questions about the financial viability of public contracts and the administration’s cash flow.

Terrorism court case at critical point

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Terrorism court case at critical point

The complex terrorism case involving 41-year-old Orkhan Asadov, accused of recruiting and organizing criminal activities against Israelis in Nicosia, reached a critical point. The trial within a trial process concluded with final arguments from both sides, and the judicial panel reserved its decision for July 5. The defense attorneys argued that the Police accessed the defendants’ mobile phones unlawfully, while the prosecuting authority defended the legality of the procedures. The case began after Asadov’s arrest in September 2021, and he denies charges related to terrorism, conspiracy to commit murder, and money laundering.

Global campaign “All Eyes on Rafah” gains momentum

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Global campaign “All Eyes on Rafah” gains momentum

The “All eyes on Rafah” campaign is gaining traction in Western Europe, Australia, and India, aiming to raise awareness about the conflict in Gaza, which has resulted in the deaths of at least 36,171 Palestinians. Israeli forces have intensified their assault on Rafah, prompting global attention and support for the residents seeking refuge from the violence. Social media, including platforms like TikTok and Instagram, has seen a massive outpouring of support with millions of users sharing the hashtag #AllEyesOnRafah. The campaign has coincided with international condemnation of Israel following airstrikes that resulted in civilian casualties. Israeli military operations in Rafah have continued despite the heightened scrutiny and criticism.