Ankara: Turkish President Recep Erdogan has issued a stern warning that the violation of Trkiye’s airspace “cannot be excused for any reason whatsoever.”
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Erdogan conveyed this message during a phone call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. The discussion centered on recent regional developments, particularly following the interception of another missile heading towards Trkiye. Erdogan emphasized that Trkiye would continue to take all necessary measures to protect its airspace, as quoted by Trkiye’s Communications Directorate.
The phone call, initiated at Pezeshkian’s request, came in the wake of an announcement by the Turkish National Defense Ministry. The ministry revealed that a ballistic missile, fired from Iran and entering Turkish airspace, was neutralized by NATO air and missile defense assets deployed in the Eastern Mediterranean. This incident followed a previous situation where a ballistic munition from Iran was intercepted by NATO units after crossing Syria and Iraq.
Erdogan also highlighted the negative impact of regional conflicts on Trkiye, despite it not being directly involved. He expressed disapproval of unlawful interventions against Iran and the targeting of countries in the region. Stressing the importance of diplomacy, Erdogan stated that Trkiye is actively working to facilitate diplomatic engagement in the region.
During the call, Erdogan expressed “deep sorrow” over a deadly strike on a girls’ school in Iran’s southern city of Minab on February 28. The U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has stated that the U.S. is investigating the attack, while Israel has denied any involvement. U.S.-Israeli strikes against Iran began on the same day, resulting in the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and top security officials.
Erdogan extended his condolences for Khamenei’s passing and expressed hope that the appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei, the late leader’s son, as Iran’s new supreme leader would contribute to regional peace and stability.