British High Commissioner affirms legality of military bases usage in Cyprus

The British High Commissioner in Cyprus, Irfan Siddiq, emphasized that the utilization of the British military bases in Cyprus is in accordance with international law and the commitments made to the Republic of Cyprus. Siddiq made these statements during an interview with the Turkish Cypriot newspaper Yeni Dusen and journalist Odul Asik Ulker.

When questioned about the potential use of the bases by secret services, Siddiq declined to disclose operational details, asserting, "The bases are sovereign, and we have full control over these areas, allowing us the authority to take necessary actions."

Regarding the alleged transfer of 3,000 US soldiers to the Cape bases, Siddiq refrained from providing information on the matter, underscoring that the bases' usage adheres to international law and commitments to the Republic of Cyprus.

"We are meticulous in ensuring our actions align with our obligations to the Republic of Cyprus and international law," Siddiq remarked.

In response to inquiries about using the bases to target Houthi objectives, Siddiq acknowledged specific strikes in Yemen following Houthi attacks on merchant ships in the Red Sea. He clarified that these actions were unrelated to Israel's attacks on Gaza.

Siddiq categorically denied assertions that the bases support Israel with weapons or facilitate its operations, stating, "We do not undertake any actions that may jeopardize international law."

[Information sourced from CNA]