Cyprus faces outcry over Israeli real estate surge, sovereignty fears
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A surge in Israeli real estate acquisitions sparks public anger and political outcry in Cyprus, with critics warning of a broader plan threatening national sovereignty.
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In this Friday, July 6, 2018 photo, people walk along a street next to the Oval building, one of a number of new high-rises transforming the skyline view of the southern coastal city of Limassol, Cyprus (AP)
A wave of public anger is mounting across Cyprus over an influx of Israeli real estate investors, triggering a fierce political and social backlash. According to a report published Friday by Yedioth Ahronoth, concerns are rising over what is being described as a “Zionist-Israeli scheme to take control of the land.”
The issue has swiftly become a central topic in Cypriot political discourse, with accusations that Israeli purchases, particularly near sensitive infrastructure, pose a threat to the country’s sovereignty.
AKEL leader warns of 'organized land acquisition'
At a recent conference of Cyprus' leftist Progressive Party of Working People (AKEL), its Secretary-General, Stefanos Stefanou, issued a stark warning, likening the pattern of Israeli real estate acquisitions in Cyprus to the early stages of settler expansion in historic Palestine. He alleged that the purchases were part of a broader plan involving closed residential zones, religious institutions, and expanding economic influence.
“This is not just investment. It mirrors what happened in Palestine: gradual land takeover,” Stefanou stated, adding that key purchases are being made in strategic areas that could eventually undermine Cypriot national control.
Palestinian Ambassador to Cyprus Abdullah Atary attended the conference as an official speaker, marking the first time a foreign diplomat has participated in a Cypriot political party gathering. His presence underscored the regional dimensions of the issue.
TikTok adds fuel to the fire
The controversy has also exploded on platforms like TikTok, where a wave of anti-Israeli videos has surfaced. These clips often show individuals speaking Hebrew with an Israeli accent while boasting about real estate deals in Cyprus, some claiming “God promised us the island after Israel.”
One viral video includes a provocative exchange: “Why are you stealing our homes?” asks a Cypriot voice. “If we don’t take them, someone else will,” replies the Israeli speaker, all to the tune of the song Hava Nagila.
'Do not demonize investors'
In response to the backlash, Israeli Ambassador to Cyprus Oren Anolik urged the public and political class to refrain from stoking fear or demonizing all Israelis. He emphasized that criticism of the Israeli regime should not translate into hostility against Israeli individuals or investors.
Still, AKEL and other critics maintain that their objections stem from concerns over national sovereignty and economic access, and not antisemitism. The party accused the Israeli occupation and its allies of weaponizing claims of antisemitism to suppress legitimate criticism.
Housing crisis stokes tensions
Official records show about 2,500 Israeli citizens permanently residing in Cyprus. However, unofficial estimates suggest the number may range between 12,000 and 15,000, owing to the widespread use of European passports by Israelis seeking residency.
The real estate boom involving Israeli investors comes at a time when many Cypriots are struggling with a worsening housing shortage. A growing number of citizens fear that “the Israelis are buying everything,” as public resentment continues to mount.
Cyprus protests 'Israel'
Earlier in the year, two large protests organized by the Cyprus Peace Council were held in Cyprus, opposing the visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog in early January.
The first demonstration took place at the Larnaca Airport roundabout, while the second was held near the presidential palace in Nicosia.
Participants included representatives from the Russian Citizens’ Council, the International Movement of Russia Lovers in Cyprus, and the Cyprus-Russia Friendship Association.
Protesters strongly condemned the Israeli occupation's ongoing military actions and acts of genocide against the Palestinian people. Demonstrators also denounced the Israeli military’s aggression, which they said resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands in Gaza and Lebanon.
