NATO Defences Intercept Third Missile from Iranian Attack

Turkish Ministry Reports Third Ballistic Missile Downed by NATO Air Defences

A third ballistic missile launched from Iran towards Turkey was shot down by NATO air defences in the eastern Mediterranean, according to a statement released by the Turkish Defence Ministry on Friday. The ministry is seeking clarification from Tehran regarding the incident.

NATO has confirmed the development and stated that it remains vigilant and committed to defending its allies. The latest incident follows two previous incidents where NATO air defences shot down Iranian ballistic missiles fired at Turkey on March 4 and March 9.

The Turkish Defence Ministry reported that the first incoming missile was neutralized en route to Turkish airspace, while the second entered it. Ankara has warned Tehran against any further attacks and has protested to the country after each incident.

NATO has increased its ballistic missile defences in the region and deployed a US Patriot air defence system to the southeastern Turkish province of Malatya. The alliance also operates an early-warning radar system at Kurecik, which is used by US troops stationed in the area.

The incidents have raised concerns about the security situation in the region. Residents of the southern city of Adana were woken up by sirens on Friday morning after a fast-moving object appeared to be on fire. The Turkish Ministry reported that fragments of a missile had been seen burning in the atmosphere before hitting the ground and being photographed by residents.

Iran has denied deliberately targeting Turkey amid its conflict with the United States and Israel.

Source: Al Jazeera