Political clash in Cyprus over Israeli President's visit

A significant political confrontation has emerged in Cyprus between the Democratic Rally (DISY) and the Progressive Party of Working People (AKEL) following the official visit of the President of Israel to the island. The dispute was triggered by a protest held outside the Presidential Palace, which was supported by AKEL, against the Israeli leader's presence.

DISY condemned AKEL’s stance, arguing that the party prioritizes ideological dogmatism over the strategic national interests of the Republic of Cyprus, particularly in sectors such as energy, defense, and security. In response, AKEL rejected these claims, stating that adherence to international law and the fight against the expansion of settlements in the West Bank should not be dismissed as ideological obsession. The party accused the government and its supporters of complicity in what it termed the genocidal policies of Israel, emphasizing that its principled stance serves as a defense against foreign occupation.