Azerbaijan Slams Iranian Ballistic Missile Entering Turkish Airspace

(MENAFN) Azerbaijan’s Defense Ministry on Monday issued a firm response condemning what it described as the launch of a ballistic munition from Iran that entered Turkish airspace.

In an official statement, the ministry expressed its backing for what it referred to as “brotherly” Türkiye, reaffirming its “unwavering support” for the country’s sovereignty and security.

According to statements from Turkish defense authorities, the projectile originating from Iran was intercepted and neutralized by NATO air and missile defense systems operating in the Eastern Mediterranean. Officials noted that Türkiye continues to respond firmly to any perceived threats while maintaining close surveillance of regional developments.

Reports also indicated that similar incidents had occurred earlier in the month. On March 4, a ballistic munition fired from Iran toward Turkish territory was intercepted by NATO defense systems, with debris later discovered in the southern province of Hatay, reportedly from the interceptor.

A few days later, on March 9, another Iranian missile entered Turkish airspace and was likewise neutralized. Debris from that interception fell in the southeastern province of Gaziantep, though no injuries or casualties were recorded, according to statements.

The situation unfolds against the backdrop of heightened regional tensions following the launch of a large-scale air campaign by the United States and Israel against Iran on Feb. 28. According to reports, the offensive has resulted in more than 1,340 deaths, including that of Iran’s then-Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

In response, Tehran has carried out retaliatory drone and missile attacks targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and several Gulf states hosting US military facilities. These strikes have reportedly led to casualties, damage to infrastructure, and broader disruptions affecting global markets and air travel.

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