The Turkish Ministry of Defense emphasizes the importance of good neighborly relations and stability in the region. The statement notes that any threats to the country's security will be met with decisive measures. "We once again urge everyone, including Iran, to heed our warnings," the ministry added.
Burhanettin Duran, head of the Communications Directorate under the Turkish president, reported that the missile was shot down near the city of Şahinbey. He also warned all parties against actions that could threaten regional security and create risks for the civilian population.
In connection with the incident, the Iranian ambassador to Turkey, Mohammad Hasan Habibollazadeh, was summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Turkish officials expressed their concerns regarding the launch of a ballistic missile towards them, as reported by Daily Sabah.
During the meeting with the Iranian ambassador, Turkish authorities demanded explanations regarding the incident and noted the seriousness of the situation.
Turkey expressed hope that such incidents would not recur and emphasized the need to avoid actions that could exacerbate tensions in the region.
This is already the second case in which an Iranian missile has been intercepted over Turkey since the beginning of the conflict between the US and Israel against Iran. The first incident occurred on March 4, when NATO's air defense system also shot down an Iranian missile that was believed to be heading towards Cyprus but deviated from its course. At that time, debris fell in the Dörtyol area of Hatay province, but no one was harmed. Iran also denied the fact of launching a missile towards Turkey on that occasion.
