Thick plumes of dark smoke are visible emanating from an airport following a drone attack believed to be linked to Iran. Early this morning, Nakhchivan Airport in Azerbaijan was struck by drones, resulting in two individuals sustaining injuries. Concurrently, another drone exploded near a school in Shekarabad.
The incident occurred amidst escalating military actions by the US and Israel targeting Iran’s military and security infrastructure. Nakhchivan International Airport, situated near the Iranian border and in proximity to Turkey, experienced the drone strikes, with reports indicating that the first drone missed its target while the second caused damage to the airport.
Due to the security threat, schools in the vicinity were closed, flights were suspended, and normal activities disrupted. Azerbaijani authorities confirmed the injuries caused by the drone attacks and expressed strong condemnation for the incident. They have also indicated their intention to take appropriate retaliatory actions, summoning the Iranian ambassador to register a formal protest.
The Foreign Ministry of Azerbaijan criticized the drone attacks as violations of international norms, exacerbating regional tensions. Although Iran has not acknowledged targeting Azerbaijan specifically, its drone strikes have extended unpredictably amid conflicts involving neighboring countries.
Nakhchivan, an exclave of Azerbaijan separated by Armenian territory, witnessed the drone attacks that have also targeted other regional countries like Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. France has condemned the strikes and emphasized the importance of diplomatic dialogue and adherence to international law to manage conflicts in the region.
China has announced sending a special envoy to the Middle East to assist in de-escalating tensions. Amidst ongoing mediation efforts by China, its Foreign Ministry spokesperson highlighted diplomatic engagements with key regional players to address the evolving situation in the Middle East.
