Ankara: Trkiye reserves the right to respond to hostile actions, a Defense Ministry official said Thursday, following a ballistic munition fired from Iran was detected heading toward Turkish airspace. Speaking to the press, National Defense Ministry spokesman Rear Adm. Zeki Akturk recalled that a ballistic munition fired from Iran and directed toward Turkish airspace on Wednesday was intercepted and neutralized by NATO air and missile defense units in the Eastern Mediterranean.

According to Anadolu Agency, Trkiye maintains its determination and capacity to ensure the security of its citizens and its airspace, while continuing to pursue an approach that prioritizes the preservation of regional peace and stability. However, the nation emphasizes its right to respond to hostile actions and is closely monitoring developments in coordination with NATO and other allies.

Akturk stated that Ankara is closely monitoring developments amid joint Israeli-US attacks on Iran and Iran's subsequent targeting of third countries. He expressed hope for an immediate end to the clashes and reiterated Trkiye's readiness to contribute to resolving regional disputes through peaceful means, emphasizing that problems can only be resolved through dialogue.

The interceptions occurred as Israel and the US continued a large-scale offensive on Iran, resulting in significant casualties, including the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and top military officials. In response, Iran has launched drone and missile strikes targeting Israel and Gulf countries that host US military assets.