Protest in Nicosia against Gaza Board of Peace meeting

On Tuesday, June 30, a peaceful protest was held outside the Presidential Palace in Nicosia, Cyprus, to oppose the 'Gaza Board of Peace' meeting taking place in the country from June 30 to July 1. Organized by a coalition of political parties and advocacy groups, including AKEL, Volt, and Accept LGBTI, the demonstration drew participants who criticized the initiative for allegedly bypassing the United Nations and excluding Palestinians from future planning. Protesters argued that the board, which reportedly includes representation from Israel, lacks legitimacy and ignores the rights of Palestinians. While the Cypriot government has maintained that it is not a formal organizer, protesters claim the state provided active support and facilitation for the meeting, describing the move as complicity in policies that violate international law. Speakers at the event included actress Popi Avraam and various activists who highlighted issues such as the blockade, humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and the controversial 'Gaza Riviera' development plans. Demonstrators displayed banners, chanted slogans against imperialism and the actions of the Israeli government, and recited poetry to express their solidarity with the Palestinian people. The protest was also attended by notable public figures, including Elsie Christofia, the widow of former President Dimitris Christofias.