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Israeli President Isaac Herzog is set to visit Cyprus today, meeting with President Nicos Christodoulides at the Presidential Palace. According to government sources, Herzog will be briefed on the outcomes of the Cyprus-Egypt intergovernmental meeting held yesterday, which focused on energy issues, the situation in Syria, and the Cyprus-Greece-Egypt trilateral partnership.
Political Divide Over Herzog's Visit
According to Kathimerini's Christos Bouris, the announcement of Herzog’s visit has stirred political tensions. Left-wing party AKEL criticized the visit, calling it a "brutal provocation" given ongoing Israeli actions in Palestine and the wider Middle East. In a strongly worded statement, AKEL described Herzog as "the head of the war machine exterminating the Palestinian people, invading neighboring states, and violating international law and morality."
AKEL also challenged President Christodoulides’ assertion that Cyprus must remain on "the right side of history," arguing that the Cypriot people should stand for peace and justice rather than align with "occupying powers and murderers."
The center-right Democratic Rally (DISY) responded sharply to AKEL's stance, accusing the party of promoting isolationist policies that harm Cyprus’ interests. DISY argued that maintaining strong diplomatic ties with Israel is crucial for Cyprus to serve as a "pillar of security and cooperation" in the region. The party claimed that AKEL’s approach aligns Cyprus with extremist movements and undermines its role and alliances.
Volt Cyprus Joins Opposition
Centrist party Volt Cyprus also opposed Herzog’s visit, raising concerns about its timing. In a statement, Volt argued that the visit might be perceived as endorsing or tolerating violations of international law.
The party pointed to allegations of crimes against humanity and genocide in Gaza by international organizations, including the United Nations and Amnesty International. Volt emphasized Cyprus’ commitment to European values, urging the government to avoid actions that might undermine those principles.
Protests and Increased Security
Public opposition to Herzog’s visit has also mobilized protests. The Pancyprian Peace Council is organizing demonstrations at 4:00 p.m. near the Larnaca airport roundabout and at 4:30 p.m. at the Presidential Palace entrance. The protests have the backing of AKEL and other organizations.
Police have announced heightened security measures during Herzog's visit. Between 4:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m., there will be intermittent road closures in Larnaca, along the Larnaca-Nicosia highway, and in Nicosia. Authorities are urging drivers to plan accordingly.
As political leaders and citizens react to Herzog's arrival, the visit underscores the deep divisions within Cypriot society over foreign policy and regional alliances.
