Israeli Political Influence Grows in Cyprus
Source reports published 25 Oct 2026, 10:00 am – 7:01 pm AEST
Israeli political activity is increasing in Cyprus, driven by a growing number of Israelis visiting and residing on the island. This includes political campaigns, the formation of a pro-Israel caucus in parliament, and a significant increase in property purchases by Israeli citizens.
What happened
- Israeli political influence is expanding in Cyprus, primarily through campaigns and a growing community of Israeli residents.
- A billboard featuring Israel’s former army chief, Gadi Eisenkot, appeared in Larnaca, attracting Israeli voters who can travel to Cyprus and vote within the day due to restrictions on overseas voting for Israeli citizens.
- Six Cypriot lawmakers formed a pro-Israel caucus, supported by the Israel Allies Foundation.
- Israeli investment in Cyprus has risen dramatically, increasing sixfold between 2017 and 2024 to 5.1 billion euros, while overall foreign investment declined.
- Israelis made 850 property purchases in the Larnaca district in the 12 months to September 2025, surpassing all other foreign nationalities.
- Estimates suggest 15,000 to 20,000 Israelis consider Cyprus home.
- This increased presence is accompanied by tensions, with reports of attacks on pro-Palestinian demonstrations and instances of Israelis writing expletives on murals honoring Gaza’s children.
- Some locals expressed discomfort with the presence of Israeli expats, particularly given Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Original reporting
- Al Jazeera: Election posters, mass tourism and property: Israel’s footprint in Cyprus
2026-10-25T00:00:00+00:00 - New York Times World: The Expat Voters Hoping to Swing Israel’s Election
2026-10-25T09:01:42+00:00