Azerbaijan condemns Iran-launched drone attacks on its territory, summons Iranian ambassador
Baku, March 5
Azerbaijan on Thursday strongly condemned drone attacks launched from Iranian territory that targeted Nakhchivan, resulting in damage to infrastructure and injuries to civilians.
In an official statement, Azerbaijan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, "At around midday on 5 March, drone attacks were carried out against the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic of the Republic of Azerbaijan from the territory of the Islamic Republic of Iran."
Providing details of the incident, the statement noted that one of the drones struck airport infrastructure while another landed near a civilian facility.
"One drone struck the terminal building of the airport in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, while another drone fell near a school building in the village of Shakarabad," the statement read.
Condemning the incident, the Azerbaijani side said the attack resulted in damage and civilian injuries.
"We strongly condemn these drone attacks launched from the territory of the Islamic Republic of Iran, which resulted in damage to the airport building and injuries of two civilians," the statement said.
The ministry further said the attack violated international norms and heightened tensions in the region.
"This attack against the territory of the Republic of Azerbaijan constitutes a violation of the norms and principles of international law and serves to increase tensions in the region," the statement added.
Calling for accountability, Azerbaijan urged Iran to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure such attacks do not recur.
"We demand from the Islamic Republic of Iran to provide, within the shortest possible timeframe, a clear explanation regarding the case, conduct an appropriate investigation, and take the necessary urgent measures to ensure that such attacks are not repeated in the future," the statement said.
The statement also noted that Azerbaijan reserved the right to respond to the incident.
"The Azerbaijani side reserves the right to take appropriate response measures," it said.
Meanwhile, the Iranian Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Mojtaba Demirchilou, has been summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan.
"The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the Republic of Azerbaijan, Mojtaba Demirchilou, has been summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where a strong protest will be conveyed to the Iranian side, and a corresponding note of protest will be presented," the statement added.
— ANI
Reader Comments
The geopolitics there are so complex. But one thing is simple: sovereign borders must be respected. India knows this all too well. Hope diplomacy prevails and such incidents stop. 🙏
Reading about drones hitting near a school sends a chill. As a parent, this is horrifying. The international community should take note. Civilian safety is paramount, no matter the dispute.
While Azerbaijan's condemnation is understandable, I hope their "right to take appropriate response measures" means through diplomatic channels and not escalation. A cycle of retaliation helps no one.
Iran needs to provide a clear explanation, as demanded. Was it an error, or intentional? Transparency is crucial. The summoning of the ambassador is the correct first step. Let's see what Tehran says.
The world is watching. This incident, coming from Iranian territory, damages its standing. Hope they investigate sincerely and hold those responsible accountable. Stability in the Caucasus is important for global trade routes too.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.