Aliyev accuses Iran of ‘terrorist act’ against Azerbaijan, orders preparation of response

Ilham Aliyev has accused Iran of carrying out a “terrorist act” against Azerbaijan and said those responsible must be punished.

Speaking at a meeting of the Security Council of Azerbaijan, Aliyev said that the Azerbaijani armed forces had been instructed to prepare and implement response measures.

He noted drones launched by the Islamic Republic of Iran Armed Forces targeted the territory of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic.

“Iran’s Islamic Republic attacked the territory of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic using unmanned aerial vehicles. Civilian facilities were targeted. Under Iran’s cowardly fire were the Nakhchivan International Airport, its terminal, a school and other facilities,” Aliyev said.

He stressed that Azerbaijan strongly condemned the attack and demanded that Iranian officials provide an explanation, issue an apology and ensure that those responsible for the incident are punished.

Aliyev added that the Armed Forces of Azerbaijan, the Defense Ministry, the State Border Service and other special units have been mobilized and must be ready to carry out any necessary operation.

At the same time, the Azerbaijani president reiterated that Baku had repeatedly stated that Azerbaijan’s territory will not be used against any neighboring country.

“Azerbaijan did not participate and will not participate in operations against Iran. This is our position, because Azerbaijan is not interested in conducting any operations against neighboring countries,” Aliyev said, adding that the country will continue to defend its territorial integrity.