Alpha News

Isolator of Disputed Properties, Aykut, May Be Transferred to Israel This Week

Published February 15, 2026, 17:20

Israeli media reports suggest that the transfer of Simon Aykut, an Israeli citizen convicted of developing and selling properties on displaced Greek Cypriot land in the occupied territories, to Israel to serve the remainder of his sentence may be completed within the week. Cypriot Minister of Justice Kostas Fytiris confirmed that the Republic of Cyprus is obligated to comply with the transfer agreement, which followed a request from Israel and faced no objections at the latest Council of Ministers meeting. Aykut was sentenced to five years imprisonment in October 2025 after admitting guilt to 40 charges. The transfer is taking place under the Council of Europe Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons, allowing him to serve his sentence in Israel, which, according to the Convention, is obligated to ensure its completion. Simultaneously, Aykut’s family expresses concerns about his health, claiming he is facing serious medical problems and requesting his immediate return to receive necessary medical care. His health condition is a factor being considered, though the execution of his sentence in Israel appears to be proceeding. The case of Aykut has caused sensitivity in both Cyprus and Israel, due to its involvement with displaced lands and the need to respect agreements and laws, as well as the need to protect the health of the convicted person.