Israeli Media: Simon Aykut Transfer to Israel Expected This Week

Israeli media report that the transfer of Israeli citizen Simon Aykut to Israel to serve the remainder of his sentence is likely to take place this week.

The reports cite statements by Minister of Justice Kostas Fytiris, who emphasized the obligation of the Republic of Cyprus to comply with the transfer agreement, following a request from Israel. It is noted that there were no objections at the last Council of Ministers meeting.

Aykut, 75 years old, was sentenced in October 2025 to five years in prison on 40 counts related to the sale of property on land belonging to displaced Greek Cypriots in the occupied territories. He was arrested in June 2024.

The transfer is based on the Council of Europe Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. Israel is obliged to ensure the execution of the sentence.

The reports also mention Aykut's health problems, with his family requesting his immediate return for medical care.