Cyprus police arrest 4 people after a small explosion near the Israeli Embassy

Police arrested four people in Cyprus on suspicion of setting off a small explosive device near the Israeli Embassy. They are facing charges related to the attempted destruction of property using explosives, possession and use of explosives, and possession of a knife.

It is currently unclear whether the explosion near the Israeli Embassy in Cyprus is linked to the Gaza conflict. Authorities have not provided any specific information regarding the motive behind the incident.

Security measures have been increased across the European Union in response to the attack by Hamas on Israel on October 7th and subsequent hostilities. However, it is not stated in the text what specific measures have been implemented in Cyprus as a result of this incident.

The suspects are scheduled to appear before a Nicosia court, where a decision will be made regarding the duration of their detention. This will allow investigators to either formally bring charges against them or release them, depending on the outcome of the hearing.

Two of the suspects were observed near the scene of the explosion, while the other two were inside a parked car in a nearby alley. Inside the vehicle, authorities discovered two knives and a hammer. Additionally, a small metallic object with a very minimal amount of pyrotechnic material was found at the scene by bomb squad officers.