Campaign billboards supporting an Israeli opposition politician have triggered controversy in Greek Cyprus, irking locals over Israel’s growing presence and prompting calls for tighter rules on foreign political campaigning.

Yashar Party leader Gadi Eisenkot defended his Cyprus billboards, saying they aim to send a positive message to Israelis ahead of October's vote.

Yashar party leader Gadi Eisenkot is criticised as concerns grow over increasing Israeli presence in Cyprus