Iran denies involvement in missile incident near Turkeys border

Turkish Defense Ministry Reports Ballistic Missile Incident Over Eastern Mediterranean

A ballistic missile allegedly fired from Iran towards Turkish airspace has been destroyed by NATO air and missile defense systems over the eastern Mediterranean, according to a statement released by Turkey’s Ministry of National Defence on Wednesday.

The Iranian Armed Forces have denied firing any missile towards Turkish territory, stating that they respect the sovereignty of Turkey. In a statement carried by state media, the Iranian forces emphasized their commitment to maintaining peaceful relations with Turkey.

Turkey’s President Recep Tayip Erdogan addressed the nation on Thursday, stating that his country is taking necessary precautions in consultation with NATO allies and issuing warnings to prevent similar incidents from occurring again. He emphasized the importance of increasing deterrent capabilities for national security.

Turkish Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan conveyed Ankara’s protest to his Iranian counterpart via phone call, according to Reuters news agency. NATO spokesperson Allison Hart condemned Iran’s targeting of Turkey, stating that the organization stands firmly with all its allies, including Turkey.

The US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that there is no indication that the destruction of the ballistic missile would trigger NATO’s Article 5 clause. Incirlik Air Base in Turkey, used by foreign military forces primarily from the US and other NATO allies, remains a critical logistics and air support location for regional operations.

Iran has denied firing any missile towards Turkish territory, while Turkey reserves the right to respond to any hostile actions against it.

Source: Al Jazeera