Jerusalem, 10 February, 2026 (TPS-IL) — The Republic of Cyprus is legally obliged to consider Israel’s request for the transfer of Simon Mistriel Aykut, sentenced to five years’ imprisonment for the usurpation of Greek Cypriot properties in the occupied areas, Cypriot Justice Minister Kostas Fytiris said.
Israel has formally requested that Aykut serve the remainder of his sentence there under a bilateral transfer agreement that Cyprus is obliged to respect, Fytiris said, noting that similar transfers have been approved recently.
Aykut, a triple national of Israel, Turkey, and Portugal, was convicted for exploiting and developing land in northern Cyprus belonging to displaced Greek Cypriots. Following the 1974 Turkish invasion, up to 200,000 Greek Cypriots were forced from their homes. Under international law, ownership of these properties remains with the original owners, and unauthorized commercial exploitation is a criminal offence in Cyprus.
Fytiris said Israel has formally recognised the offence and renewed travel warnings against such purchases. He added Aykut could be eligible for release in six to eight months, saying Cyprus could not risk the public interest over such a short period.