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Phytiris: Cyprus Must Respond to Israel's Request for Aykut

Published February 9, 2026, 14:16
Phytiris: Cyprus Must Respond to Israel's Request for Aykut

The Minister of Justice and Public Order of Cyprus, Kostas Phytiris, stated that the Republic of Cyprus is obligated to respond to Israel's request to transfer Simon Aykut, who was convicted of the usurpation of Greek Cypriot properties, to serve his sentence in Israel. Mr. Phytiris emphasized that Cyprus has signed an agreement for the transfer of convicts to their country of origin and must comply with it. Although the matter is particularly sensitive due to the usurpation of property, the Minister mentioned that he has already signed fifteen similar requests for other countries. He noted that Israel has recognized the usurpation of Greek Cypriot properties in the occupied territories and has issued travel advice discouraging Israelis from purchasing property in these areas. Mr. Phytiris explained that failing to respond to the request could have implications for Cyprus's relations with other countries that have signed the same agreement. Furthermore, due to Aykut's age, his remaining sentence is relatively short (approximately 6-8 months), making a refusal to transfer him disproportionate. The Minister stressed that Aykut's conviction indeed concerns the usurpation of Greek Cypriot properties, which strengthens the legitimacy of the decision to transfer him to Israel.