Gaziantep: The Turkish Defense Ministry announced that a ballistic missile fired from Iran, which entered Turkish airspace, was neutralized by NATO air and missile defense assets stationed in the Eastern Mediterranean. The ministry shared on the US social media platform X that debris from the missile fell onto an uninhabited area in Gaziantep, with no reported casualties or injuries.

According to Anadolu Agency, the ministry emphasized Trkiye's commitment to maintaining good neighborly relations and ensuring regional stability. The statement underlined that Trkiye would take all necessary actions decisively against any threats to its territory and airspace. Additionally, Trkiye urged all parties to heed its warnings to avoid endangering regional security.

Trkiye's Communications Director, Burhanettin Duran, confirmed in a separate statement on X that the missile was successfully engaged and neutralized over the Sahinbey district of Gaziantep by NATO defense systems. He reiterated the call for all parties, including Iran, to refrain from actions that could compromise regional security and endanger civilians.

In response to the incident, Azerbaijan expressed its "full solidarity with the brotherly Republic of Trkiye," with its Defense Ministry condemning the missile attack. Baku affirmed its support for Ankara, emphasizing the threat such actions pose to regional peace and security. Azerbaijan pledged its backing for Trkiye in ensuring the safety and security of its population and territory.

The incident follows a recent escalation in the region, with Trkiye's Defense Ministry previously reporting the interception and neutralization of another ballistic munition fired from Iran. This development coincided with a joint attack by Israel and the US on Iran, resulting in significant casualties, including the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In retaliation, Tehran launched drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries hosting US military assets.