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An Iranian ballistic missile was successfully intercepted by Turkey's air defense systems. According to the Ministry of Defense, debris fell in an unprotected area in Gaziantep.
The Turkish Ministry of Defense emphasized that the country places great importance on good neighborly relations and stability in the region. At the same time, it was underscored that any threats directed at Turkish territory and airspace will be met with decisive actions. "We urge everyone to heed Turkey's warnings on this matter," the ministry added.
According to Burhanettin Duran, head of the Communications Directorate of the Turkish Presidential Administration, the missile was intercepted in the Shahinbey area. He also warned all parties, especially Iran, against actions that could threaten security in the region and endanger the lives of civilians.
In connection with this incident, the Iranian ambassador to Turkey, Mohammad Hassan Habibollazadeh, was summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where Turkish officials expressed their concerns regarding the incident, according to Daily Sabah.
Turkish authorities emphasized the seriousness of the situation during the meeting and requested clarifications from the Iranian side.
Sources report that Turkey hopes for the absence of similar incidents in the future and stresses the need to avoid actions that could exacerbate the existing tensions in the region.
This is the second case of intercepting an Iranian missile over Turkey since the beginning of the conflict between the US and Israel with Iran. The first incident occurred on March 4, when NATO's air defense system also shot down a missile believed to be headed for Cyprus. One of the debris fell in the Dörtyol area of Hatay province, but there were no casualties. Iran stated at that time that it had not launched a missile towards Turkey.
