The Digital Security Authority (DSA) announces the successful completion of the in-person phase of the international programme “Cyber Security Operation Defender”, which took place in Nicosia from 12 to 15 January 2026.
The programme, with a total duration of 250 hours, is jointly organised by Israel’s National Cyber Directorate (INCD) and the Israeli Ministry of Labour, the Office of the Commissioner of Communications – Digital Security Authority of the Republic of Cyprus, as well as the National Cybersecurity Authority of Greece. The programme brings together 21 professionals, with seven (7) participants from each country.
The visit to Cyprus was included as an additional educational and cultural experience, offering participants advanced knowledge and specialised skills in the field of cybersecurity, focusing on:
▪️Strategic risk management and implementation of the NIS2 Directive
▪️Simulations and hands-on training in a Cyber Range environment
▪️Development of key soft skills required in today’s modern workplace
As part of the programme, participants visited the CYENS Centre of Excellence, while the activities concluded with an official reception hosted at the residence of the Ambassador of Israel to Cyprus.
A highlight of the visit was the signing of a Declaration of Intent on Thursday, 15 January 2026, in the presence of the Ambassador of Israel, formalising the parties’ intention to maintain and further strengthen trilateral cooperation in the field of cybersecurity.
The Declaration of Intent was signed on behalf of the Commissioner of Communications by Mr Antonis Antoniadis, Director of the Office, alongside Mr Giannis Alexakis, Director General of the National Cybersecurity Authority of Greece, and Mr Gilad Shadmon, Director General of the Ministry of Regional Cooperation of the State of Israel.
The Digital Security Authority extends its best wishes to all participants for the successful completion of the programme and reaffirms its commitment to launching further initiatives and actions that enhance cybersecurity at both national and international level.
