An Iranian-launched ballistic missile heading towards Turkish airspace was intercepted by NATO air and missile defence systems before it could enter the country's territory, Turkey's Defence Ministry said on Wednesday.
According to AFP, which cited the ministry, “A ballistic munition launched from Iran, which was detected passing through Iraqi and Syrian airspace and heading towards Turkish airspace, was engaged in a timely manner by NATO air and missile defence assets stationed in the eastern Mediterranean and rendered inactive.”
The ministry said there were no casualties or injuries resulting from the incident.
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TRT World reported that the Turkish Defence Ministry said it had been “determined that the ordnance fell in the Dortyol district of the Hatay province,” located in southern Turkey, northeast of Cyprus' Karpas peninsula.
Ankara underscored its readiness to defend its territory, stating, “Our resolve and capacity to ensure the security of our country and its citizens are at the highest level. While Turkey supports regional stability and peace, it is capable of ensuring the security of its territory, regardless of from whom or from where a threat may come.”
The ministry added that “every step taken to defend our territory and airspace will be taken resolutely and without hesitation,” and emphasised, “We reserve the right to respond to any hostile attitude shown towards our country.”
Calling for restraint, Turkey urged all sides to avoid further escalation. “We urge all parties to refrain from actions which would further spread the context in the region. In this context, we will consult with NATO and our other allies,” the statement said.
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Cyprus Mail reported that the interception came hours after Turkey's defence ministry signalled a possible reinforcement of its military presence in northern Cyprus. The ministry shared a photograph on social media showing Turkish soldiers arriving at Ercan (Tymbou) airport, captioned, “as calm as the sea, as resolute as a storm.”
A Turkish military transport aircraft had earlier been confirmed landing at the airport on Wednesday morning.
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