Five men committed for trial over alleged plot targeting Israeli interests in Cyprus

Larnaca, Cyprus. Five men accused of terrorism offences linked to an alleged plot targeting Israeli interests in Cyprus were committed for trial on Thursday, with proceedings before the Larnaca criminal court scheduled to begin on October 14.

The defendants, aged 32, 33, 38, 41 and 54, will remain in custody pending trial after a closed hearing before the Larnaca district court.

Charges and custody

The five defendants face a total of 15 charges, including conspiracy to commit a felony, conspiracy to commit murder, participation in a criminal syndicate, terrorism offences and money laundering.

An application for the release of the 54-year-old defendant was rejected. The man had initially been released on bail, but the court of appeal overturned that decision and he was returned to custody.

Prosecution allegations

According to the indictment, prosecutors allege that the defendants were involved in a Hamas-linked terrorist cell and preparations targeting Israeli interests in Cyprus.

The case emerged in May, when police arrested two Palestinian men, aged 32 and 38, during raids near Pentakomo.

Authorities alleged that the 32-year-old photographed potential targets across Cyprus and obtained chemicals and equipment capable of being used to manufacture explosives after allegedly being recruited by a Hamas member.

Investigators further alleged that the 38-year-old, a physics professor, entered Cyprus illegally and was expected to assemble explosive devices after receiving instructions in Turkey.

A third suspect, a 54-year-old Palestinian with Cypriot citizenship, was later arrested after prosecutors alleged that he received parcels containing chemical substances linked to the investigation. He denies any involvement.