Cypriot MPs launch Israel Allies Foundation branch amid political controversy

Six Cypriot Members of Parliament (MPs) from three political parties—DISY, DIKO, and ELAM—have officially established a Cypriot chapter of the Israel Allies Foundation (IAF) following a launch ceremony at the House of Representatives on Wednesday, October 14, 2026. The new group, headed by DIKO MP Chrysis Pantelides, includes Giorgos Karoullas, Charalambos Petrides, Sotiris Ioannou, Marios Pelekanos, and Andreas Apostolou. The event was attended by high-ranking officials, including the new Israeli Ambassador to Cyprus, Souli Davidovitz, and former President Nicos Anastasiades.

This move marks the second parliamentary partnership with an Israeli-linked foundation in two weeks, following the earlier creation of a local branch of the Transatlantic Friends of Israel (TFI). Supporters, including the participating parties, argue the initiatives strengthen vital defense, energy, and diplomatic cooperation. Conversely, the opposition party AKEL has launched a fierce critique, labeling these actions as the creation of a foreign lobby within the Cypriot parliament. AKEL accused the government of Christodoulides of facilitating the promotion of Israeli interests and argued these moves undermine Cyprus's commitment to international law regarding the Palestinian conflict.

DISY has rejected AKEL's accusations, demanding an apology and framing the new partnerships as a strategic necessity for national security. As the debate continues, the cross-party initiative remains active, with the parties involved insisting that their collaboration serves the national interest rather than the agenda of a foreign power.