Iran’s Armed Forces denied launching any missile toward Turkish territory, stressing that the country respects Tourkey’s sovereignty, following NATO’s interception of a ballistic missile over the eastern Mediterranean.
NATO intercepts missile
Tourkey’s Ministry of National Defence said a ballistic missile, reportedly fired from Iran and passing through Syria and Iraq toward Turkish airspace, was destroyed by NATO air and missile defence systems. Authorities confirmed there were no casualties or injuries.
The ministry warned that Ankara reserves the right to respond to hostile actions and urged all parties to avoid escalating the conflict.
Erdogan strengthens security
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said the country took all necessary precautions in coordination with NATO allies and issued clear warnings to prevent similar incidents. He emphasised that Turkey leaves nothing to chance regarding the security of its borders and airspace.
Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan lodged an official protest with his Iranian counterpart, according to Reuters.
NATO and US support
NATO spokesperson Allison Hart condemned Iran’s targeting of Turkey and reaffirmed the alliance’s support for all members. She said NATO maintains a strong deterrence and defence posture, including air and missile defence.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that the interception does not trigger NATO’s Article 5, which treats an attack on one member as an attack on all.
Strategic context
Incirlik Air Base in Tourkey, used by US and NATO forces, serves as a critical logistics and air support hub. The base supported US-led operations during the 1991 Gulf War and later anti-ISIL missions, though Turkey denied US use for the 2003 Iraq invasion.
Also read: Erdogan on Iran missile targeting Turkey: “Nothing left to chance”
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel
