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US Congress Considers Lift on Cyprus Arms Embargo: What It Means for Regional Security

by News Editor

April 8, 2025

Historic Move: US Set to End Cyprus Arms Embargo

In a significant geopolitical shift, a bill has been introduced in the United States House of Representatives to permanently lift the arms embargo imposed on Cyprus since 1987. Spearheaded by New York’s Republican Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis, this legislative proposal aims to remove existing restrictions and allow the Republic of Cyprus to engage directly with US military hardware suppliers.

The proposed bill follows a Presidential determination, signed by former President Joe Biden, incorporating Cyprus into crucial defense programs, allowing the nation access to purchasing military equipment directly from the US government rather than through private firms, potentially lowering costs significantly.

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Background and Implications

The embargo was initially imposed to pressure a resolution on the ongoing Cyprus issue. However, in 2022, it was partially lifted under conditional agreements involving anti-money laundering and prohibitions on Russian military access to Cypriot ports.

This bill proposes not only the complete lifting of the embargo but also seeks to bolster regional security collaborations with Greece, Israel, and Cyprus in a structured ‘3+1’ framework, focusing on counterterrorism and maritime security.

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Funding and Strategic Cooperation

Alongside lifting the embargo, the bill proposes enhanced US involvement and support for joint exercises in counterterrorism and equipping the Cyclops centre in Larnaca with new technology, earmarking $5 million (€4.6m) for equipment and $2 million (€1.8m) for general support annually until 2029.

With such initiatives, the US aims to strengthen alliances and ensure stability across the Eastern Mediterranean. This move comes amidst broader global strategic realignments and showcases Cyprus’s increasing importance as a regional security partner.

Future Prospects

This legislative effort underscores the heightened geopolitical importance Cyprus holds today. By enhancing strategic dialogues and involving Cyprus in critical defense initiatives, the US aims to safeguard Eastern Mediterranean waters against terrorism threats.

As Cyprus advances on this new path, it reflects the island’s emergence as a substantial player not only in regional security but also as a thriving hub for energy investments, as highlighted in other reports on Cyprus’ promising energy investment pathways.

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WhatsApp Introduces Parent-Supervised Accounts For Users Under 13

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

March 12, 2026

Enhanced Security And Messaging Control

WhatsApp has introduced a new type of account designed for users under the age of 13, allowing parents to supervise messaging activity. The accounts are limited to messaging and voice calls and do not include advertising features, reflecting growing demand from families for safer communication tools for younger users.

Streamlined Verification And Parental Oversight

Creating a supervised account requires a parent or guardian to complete a dual-device verification process using a QR code. This procedure links the child’s device with the parent’s account, allowing guardians to monitor certain activities. Once the connection is established, parents can receive notifications when their child adds, blocks or reports contacts. The system is designed to provide oversight while still allowing children to communicate with approved contacts.

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Restricted Features With Full Encryption

Several WhatsApp functions are restricted within supervised accounts. Access to Meta AI, Channels and Status updates is disabled, and disappearing messages are not available in individual chats. Despite these limitations, conversations remain protected with WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption, ensuring that messages and calls remain private between participants.

Controlled Interactions And Transition Options

Additional safety tools help pre-teens manage interactions with unfamiliar contacts. Context cards provide details about messages received from unknown users, including shared groups and the country where the account originated. Users also have the option to silence incoming calls from numbers that are not saved in their contacts.

Chat requests and invitations to join group conversations require a six-digit parental PIN before they can be accepted. As children grow older, WhatsApp will inform them about the option to convert their supervised profile into a standard account. Parents can postpone this transition for up to 12 months if they wish to maintain supervision for a longer period.

A Broader Commitment To Digital Safety

WhatsApp’s initiative builds on Meta’s longstanding efforts to enhance the safety of young users across its platforms, including Instagram and Facebook. With over 3 billion active users worldwide, WhatsApp is reinforcing its commitment to a secure digital environment. This move also coincides with regulatory trends in countries such as Denmark, Germany, Spain, and the U.K., where steps are being taken to restrict social media access for younger users.