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.
The cost of buying houses or apartments in Cyprus has become a big issue, especially in recent years. The level of residential rents has increased by around 20% in the last 2 years. Various proposals have been made to alleviate the problem, including increasing area ratio, abolishing minimum areas, and creating low-cost units. Immediate measures are needed to address the housing crisis, such as tax reductions for landlords who rent out apartments and implementing summary eviction procedures. Colleges and universities could also play a role in providing housing for students. The Housing Finance Corporation and Land Development Agency may not be able to effectively address the issue.
Fact: Russia’s Finance Ministry has submitted legislation to reintroduce progressive taxes on personal income, with the progressive scale starting with annual incomes exceeding 2.4 million rubles (,100).
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.
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.
German cartographer Martin Behaim unveiled the Erdapfel, the first known globe to show the Americas.
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees has suspended its operations in Rafah due to ongoing Israeli armed forces ground operations in the city. All agency staff has relocated to Khan Yunis, where they have resumed operations despite damage to their facilities. The Israeli army sees Rafah as a stronghold for Hamas, prompting the agency to evacuate all shelters in the city. Thousands of displaced people are now seeking refuge in Khan Yunis and other areas affected by the conflict.
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.
Germany and Europe are preparing for two significant events: the European Parliament elections and the UEFA EURO 2024 football tournament in Germany. The German Ambassador to Cyprus expressed concern about the rise of right-wing parties in the elections and emphasized Germany’s support for a solution to the Cyprus issue based on UN resolutions. Germany aims to host EURO 2024 as a symbol of cohesion in Europe, promoting sustainability, diversity, and inclusion. Germany also advocates for a strong and united EU, despite facing challenges like Putin’s war in Ukraine. The 2004 enlargement of the EU serves as a lesson on the importance of unity and speaking with one voice in foreign policy. Germany’s proposals for EU decision-making reform aim to ensure the Union remains capable of action. Germany is committed to supporting Cyprus in finding a comprehensive solution to the Cyprus issue, emphasizing the importance of confidence-building between Greek-Cypriot and Turkish-Cypriot communities.
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.