Road Closures Announced in Cyprus Ahead of Israeli President's Visit

The Republic of Cyprus is implementing heightened security measures for the unplanned visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog. As part of these measures, certain roads will be temporarily closed before and during the visit.

According to the police, on Thursday, January 9, intermittent road closures lasting a few minutes may occur between 4:00 PM and 9:00 PM in the Larnaca area, along the Larnaca–Nicosia highway, and in parts of Nicosia.

Residents are advised to follow the instructions of police officers on duty. Updates regarding road closures can be found on the official police website here.

Due to planned protests, Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides will meet with President Herzog under strict security measures. The meeting is scheduled for 6:00 PM at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia.

The Pan-Cyprian Peace Council has organized a protest against the Israeli president’s visit, citing ongoing violence in Gaza and Israel’s actions in Lebanon. The protest will begin at 4:00 PM at the Larnaca Airport roundabout and continue at 4:30 PM outside the Presidential Palace.

Reports suggest that President Herzog’s visit is linked to recent trilateral talks held in Cairo between Cyprus, Greece, and Egypt, as well as developments in the region, particularly in Syria.

According to the Cyprus News Agency (CNA), another key factor prompting the meeting of regional leaders is the recent change in U.S. leadership.