Criminal gangs, profiteers thrive in Gaza as cash shortage worsens misery

Criminal gangs, profiteers thrive in Gaza as cash shortage worsens misery

A shortage of banknotes in Gaza is causing chaos, with only a few ATMs operational in the southern city of Rafah. Residents are facing long waits and sometimes paying fees to access cash, as armed gangs exploit the situation. The conflict has led to a lack of liquidity in the enclave, with hundreds of millions of shekels stuck in bank vaults. Essential goods remain scarce, and some merchants are profiteering from the shortage by charging high commissions. Gaza’s economy relies heavily on Israel, which has blocked cash imports since the start of the war.

UN official rings alarm over Rafah attack, saying it could result in ‘slaughter’

UN official rings alarm over Rafah attack, saying it could result in ‘slaughter’

An Israeli incursion in Rafah would endanger the lives of hundreds of thousands of Gazans and severely impact humanitarian operations in the enclave. Israel has warned of an operation against Hamas in Rafah, where displaced people are living in shelters. The U.N. humanitarian office expressed concerns about a potential civilian slaughter and disruption of aid operations, including medical clinics and food distribution. The World Health Organization has prepared a contingency plan, but it may not prevent a significant increase in casualties. Additionally, there are worries that an incursion could close the Rafah crossing, hindering the import of medical supplies.

Union head claims police chief , ‘silenced him’

Union head claims police chief , ‘silenced him’

Fact: Head of the police branch of Isotita trade union Nikos Loizides received a threatening letter from police chief Stelios Papatheodorou for disclosing internal police matters and using offensive language in televised interviews.

Ministers commit to addressing CyBC labor dispute

Ministers commit to addressing CyBC labor dispute

Ministries of Labour, Finance, and Interior are willing to pay the salaries for March to CyBC employees by the coming Friday following a budget delay.

Tales from the Coffeeshop: What is First Lady, ’s achievement?

Tales from the Coffeeshop: What is First Lady, ’s achievement?

The IMH conference organizer is promoting its Women Leaders’ Forum at the Hilton Hotel, featuring the First Lady of Cyprus, Philippa Karsera Christodoulides, as a speaker. The forum is titled ‘Achievement driven by women.’ Environment Commissioner Dr. Maria Panayiotou, who initiated a project involving biological oranges at the presidential palace, was later appointed minister of agriculture despite her lack of background in agriculture, largely due to her relationship with the First Lady. Agriculture Minister Dr. Panayiotou attended an event at the Cap St Georges Hotel and Resort, which raised concerns about environmental impacts on the Mediterranean Monk Seal’s habitat. Marios Pelekanos switched from the Disy party to Elam to run for the European Parliament, highlighting political opportunism. Yiannakis Nicolaou, the news boss of the state broadcaster, exhibited erratic behavior and dishonesty in his professional conduct. Archbishop Georgios criticized the exploitation of religious relics for financial gain and questioned the authenticity of the Holy Belt of the Virgin Mary’s visit to Cyprus, which was treated with state honors. Aristides Viketos revealed that the money found in the Avakoum monastery’s safe was more than reported, with allegations of misappropriation by Bishop Isaias.

Liar to represent Cyprus at Eurovision (photos)

Liar to represent Cyprus at Eurovision (photos)

Cyprus’ entry for the Eurovision Song Contest in May in Sweden is “Liar,” performed by Silia Kapsis. The song, written by Demetris Kontopoulos and Elke Tiel, will represent Cyprus at the 68th Eurovision Song Contest in Malmo. The song addresses fake societal situations, including body shaming and various forms of oppression. The music video, directed by Kostas Karydas, features choreography by Guy Groove and Kelly Sweeney and aims to inspire liberation and joy.

Evdokia’s adventure is a disgrace to the Cypriot state

Evdokia’s adventure is a disgrace to the Cypriot state

Journalist Evdokia Loizou struggled for 17 years to find justice for the professional illness she suffered, which was caused by her working conditions at CyBC, a state organization. Despite her efforts, CyBC denied the work-related nature of her illness, contradicting the decision of the Department of Labor Inspection. The court eventually ruled in favor of Loizou, recognizing the significant impact of her illness on her quality of life and career. CyBC had attempted to disprove the link between Loizou’s workspace and her illness in court and ignored evidence from various medical and official reports. The court’s decision highlighted the state’s criminal behavior through CyBC’s actions, leading to calls for an apology and compensation for Loizou.