The use of British military bases in Cyprus is following international law and the UK’s obligations towards the Republic of Cyprus, British High Commissioner Irfan Siddiq told Turkish Cypriot daily Yeni Duzen.
When questioned about the potential involvement of the bases in secret service operations, Siddiq declined to provide information on operational matters. He noted that the bases are “sovereign, thus the control of these areas is ours, giving us full authority to do as we please.”
Regarding rumours of 3,000 American soldiers being stationed at the Akrotiri base, Siddiq remained tight-lipped, stating that he would not disclose information on such matters. He reiterated that the use of the bases aligns with international law and obligations towards the Republic of Cyprus.
“We are very careful in our movements so that they comply with our obligations towards the Republic of Cyprus and are within the framework of international law,” he stated.
In response to questions about the bases being used to attack Houthi targets, Siddiq confirmed that specific locations in Yemen were struck following Houthi attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea. He clarified that these actions had no connection with Israel’s attacks in Gaza.
Addressing claims that the bases are used to support Israel, either by sending military equipment or by facilitating operations, Siddiq denied such allegations, asserting that the UK refrains from any actions that could jeopardise international law.
Last Sunday, hundreds gathered outside the British Bases in Akrotiri to protest what they say is British support for Israel’s Gaza bombing campaign and operations.
Besides being used for air strikes against Houthis, according to Declassified UK the UK’s airbase in Akrotiri has facilitated over 30 military transport flights to Tel Aviv since the start of Israel’s bombardment of Gaza.
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