The arrested person has not given satisfactory explanations for their origin, while, according to an official of the Department of Antiquities, they are icons of Saint Savvas, Saint Reginos, Saint Catherine, the Ascension of Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, and an icon depicting Saints Stylianos, Mark, and Apostle Peter.

From further examination carried out, it has been ascertained that these icons are indeed ancient antiquities.

Police are appealing for the assistance of the public or anyone else who may have information or know of possible locations from which they may have been stolen.

According to a security source who spoke to AFP, these arrests took place in multiple raids conducted by security forces and Turkish intelligence services (MIT) spanning nine cities, notably including Constantinople and Ankara.

The source mentioned that “Two of the suspects had surveilled synagogues and churches,” highlighting their reconnaissance efforts, while a third individual was allegedly plotting an attack on the Iraqi embassy.

The significance of these suspects within the jihadist organization was emphasized by the source, categorizing them as important members of the extremist group.

This substantial operation follows Turkish police’s recent announcement of conducting widespread searches in 32 cities nationwide, leading to the arrest of over 300 individuals with alleged connections to the Islamic State.

Source: ANA-MPA, Article translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas

As reported by Turkish Cypriot website bugunkibris, the “mayor” of Rizokarpaso – Yialousa, Hamit Bakirci, confirmed the continuation of the masjid’s construction, detailing plans for its utilization. “There are 12 rooms (cells). We have initiated repairs; two will be designated for the masjid. The remaining cells will be converted into accommodations equipped with shower facilities, toilets, beds, and air conditioning. Our aim is to offer accommodation for tourists visiting the area. We’re aiming to open by summer,” stated the mayor.

He also emphasized efforts to gentrify the surrounding square, a pivotal site for religious tourism. “We’re revitalizing the square, the hub of religious tourism. The streets and square are undergoing improvements. We aim for incoming tourists not to see them in their current state,” he highlighted, ensuring that the planned masjid would not overshadow the significance of the monastery.

The Turkish Cypriot website recalls that the masjid’s construction project at Apostolos Andreas Monastery had previously been halted amidst reactions earlier in the summer.

Source: CNA / sigmalive.com

Article translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas

The call aims to finance projects geared towards enhancing overall security in public areas, emphasizing six distinct priorities: safeguarding places of worship across various religions, with a dedicated focus on Jewish sites, countering CBRN threats (chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear), curbing firearm trafficking, and deploying explosive detection dogs. Notably, the Commission has allocated EUR 5 million exclusively for projects aimed at safeguarding Jewish places of worship, a response to the alarming surge in anti-Semitic incidents across the EU following the Hamas terrorist attack in Israel on October 7, 2023, as detailed in the Commission’s communication titled ‘No place for hate: a Europe united against hatred’.

Margaritis Schinas, Vice-President for the Promotion of European Way of Life, emphasized, “It is unacceptable that, 78 years post the Shoah, Jews in Europe once again live in fear, and feel the need to hide their identity. Security is a fundamental right for all Europeans and a crucial element for the thriving of Jewish communities. Through this initiative, the EU aims to support national authorities in ensuring the safety of Jewish communities and all citizens.”

Safeguarding the well-being of all residents in Europe remains a paramount concern for the Commission. Concrete measures have been taken to bolster the protection of public spaces and counter radicalization, including initiatives through the Radicalisation Awareness Network and the EU Internet Forum. Europol’s mandate has been fortified to offer enhanced support to Member States in upholding security. Furthermore, the Commission has adopted regulations to prevent the online dissemination of terrorist content, mandating the removal of all such content within a maximum of one hour.

Source: ANA-MPA / Article translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas

Expressing his deep condolences, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis conveyed heartfelt sympathies to the families of the victims and wished a swift recovery to those injured in the tragic incident. “Our thoughts are with the Czech people during this difficult time,” he added.

The perpetrator, identified as a student of the University, was reportedly involved in the incident, following the earlier discovery of the perpetrator’s deceased father, as disclosed by the police.

The Czech police, responding swiftly to the situation, mobilized forces after reports of the incident at Jan Palach Square. Subsequently, law enforcement neutralized the perpetrator, leading to the evacuation of the affected building. Police confirmed multiple casualties and numerous injuries at the scene.

Interior Minister Witt Rakusan emphasized that no other armed assailant was confirmed, urging the public to adhere to police instructions for their safety. An email circulated among staff at Charles University’s School of Fine Arts warned of an armed individual within the University premises, instructing those present to secure themselves.

Authorities cordoned off the area and advised local residents to remain indoors for their safety.

Source: ANA-MPA / Article translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas

On Thursday 14th December, at 5.45 am, NESA released the results of more than 700 secondary schools together as well as those of over 67,000 secondary students across News South Wales.

NESA is “The New South Wales Education Standards Authority (abbreviated as NESA), the State government education statutory authority with the responsibility for the establishment and monitoring of school standards in the Australian state of New South Wales.

NESA replaced the ‘’Board of Studies’ in 2017. This year for the first time in many years, schools were informed of individual students’ ATAR scores and hour after the students received their ranks.

It was both comforting and exciting as the Head of College Mrs Amelia Katsogiannis shared with the teachers and the Parish Council the more outstanding results by the students.

There was genuine excitement and joy, not only for the students who achieved an ATAR of 90 and above, but also for the students whose hard work got them from an expected ATAR of 50 into the 70s and from the 60s into the 80s.

Jake Vassilis gained the highest ATAR of our College at 99.8. Receiving his results with humility, Jake encapsulates the Orthodox and Hellenic ethos of our College and the school motto “Aien Aristevein” – Forever Excelling.

The St Spyridon College HSC cohort of 2023 comprised of 69 Year 12 students and 9 Accelerated Year 11 students.

The College’s outstanding results consisted of:

– The College ranked 78th in NSW, placing the College in the top 10% of the State.
– ATAR of 99.8 attained by Jake Vassilis
– ATAR of 99.4 attained by Nektarios Kollias
– 19% of the cohort achieved an ATAR over 90

– 3 Top Achievers:

Nektarios Kollias – Classical Greek
Isabella Koutoulogenis – Modern Greek Continuers and Modern Greek Extension
Victoria Stathos – Modern Greek Continuers and Modern Greek Extension

– 4 All Rounders:

Kristy Bourdaniotis
Gabriella Guerrera
Nektarios Kollias
Jake Vassilis

– 44% of the cohort were Distinguished Achievers
– 55% of the cohort’s results were above 80
– 81% of the students achieved results in the top 2 Bands

Gathering with the students to celebrate their achievements, the Head of College Mrs. Amelia Katsogiannis proudly stated: “Each day at St Spyridon College is a celebration, an opportunity to embrace our motto, and a commitment to pursue Excellence in all our endeavours. Congratulations on your outstanding achievements. We are proud of all our students. “ΑΙΕΝ ΑΡΙΣΤΕΥΕΙΝ” – “Forever Excelling”

Parish Priest Father Steven Scoutas, together with Fr Stavros Ivanos and Parish President Mr. Elia Economou commented on these outstanding results, “We wish to congratulate our Head of College, Mrs. Amelia Katsogiannis, the Heads of Departments, the Year Advisers, and the Teachers of our students. Indeed, hearty congratulations are extended to the parents, grandparents and siblings who contributed to the success of St Spyridon College at the 2023 Higher School Certificate examinations. We thank God and congratulate all of our students for their remarkable performance and outcomes. May Christ guide their footsteps deep into the future.”

As millions of American Jews celebrated Hanukkah, authorities reported that a 28-year-old resident of the synagogue’s area behaved in a notably suspicious manner as he approached the place of worship.

According to Governor Hochul, the individual discharged multiple shots and made threatening remarks outside the Temple Israel synagogue. However, she refrained from confirming reports that he shouted “freedom for Palestine,” as stated by the Times Union newspaper.

Governor Hochul, dedicated to combating racism, anti-Semitism, and safeguarding the over 2 million American Jews in her state, expressed her relief that no injuries occurred.

“The safety of Jewish New Yorkers is non-negotiable. Any anti-Semitic action is unacceptable,” she emphasized, addressing the concerning rise in harassment and attacks targeting Jews across the United States.

Governor Hochul affirmed that New York State, with its population of 20 million, opposes hatred, anti-Semitism, and Islamophobia. She announced heightened police vigilance during the eight days and nights of Hanukkah celebrations.

Kathy Hochul and Eric Adams, Mayor of New York City located approximately 250 kilometers south of Albany, have actively participated in demonstrations supporting Israel and American Jews since the Israel-Hamas conflict began.

The city, home to nearly two million Jews and hundreds of thousands of Muslims, will reinforce security measures around the menorahs, the seven-candle Jewish candelabra, commonly placed in public spaces.

Source: ANA-MPA, Greek text translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas

Under the banner “No place for hate: a Europe united against hatred,” an urgent call to action urges Europeans to champion tolerance and respect.

The Commission’s proposed actions seek to intensify efforts in combating all forms of hatred by mobilizing initiatives across various policy domains, encompassing security, the digital realm, education, culture, and sport. These measures include increased funding to safeguard places of worship, supported by dedicated delegations tasked with optimizing the impact of EU anti-hate policies.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized, “Europe embraces diverse cultural and religious identities, valuing respect and tolerance as core societal principles. Therefore, it is our duty to confront instances of anti-Semitism and anti-Muslim hatred whenever they arise.”

Margaritis Schinas, Vice-President for the Promotion of our European Way of Life, responsible for efforts to combat anti-Semitism, highlighted the pressing need for action, stating, “The recent surge in hate speech and hate crimes across Europe demands a resolute response from all quarters. Drawing from Europe’s rich history of forging unity from past discord, it’s time to apply this wisdom to foster reconciliation and dialogue. I reject the idea of Europe as an insecure space for any religious community – a sentiment that every European should share.”

Safeguarding people and places

Prioritizing the protection of individuals and public spaces is paramount. The Commission will accelerate the call for proposals under the Internal Security Fund, originally planned for 2024, now set for an earlier rollout in 2023, with a specific emphasis on securing Jewish places of worship and an increased budget.

In 2024, the PROTECT program will receive additional funding dedicated to safeguarding public spaces and places of worship for all faiths and denominations, including a €5 million increase specifically targeting the rising threats posed by anti-Semitism.

To counter online threats, the Commission will push for the finalization of an enhanced code of conduct against illegal online hate speech by February 2024. It will also enhance collaborations with civil society groups, experts, officials, and public authorities to detect and address online hate speech effectively.

Engagement in society

Historically, European Commission coordinators have played a key role in community engagement, especially in efforts against racism, anti-Semitism, promotion of Jewish life, and combating anti-Muslim hatred. These roles will now be assigned to envoys, equipped with a focused mandate to reinforce coordination, including through tangible EU-funded projects, for both online and offline anti-hate policies.

Simultaneously, the Commission will support journalism training to uphold media standards and identify hate speech. It will also drive initiatives fostering inclusion and diversity in education, culture, and sport.

Moreover, the European Union will intensify backing for fact-checkers within the EU and the Arabic-speaking world. Emphasizing that the fight against hatred transcends borders, the Commission stresses the importance for global cooperation to combat this issue.

Source: ANA-MPA / Translation: Konstantinos Menyktas

No news will be published from 11.30 until 15.30 (Greece time).

No news will be published from 11.30 until 15.30.