ALBAWABA - Despite Tehran's repeated denials of involvement, Turkey's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated on Saturday that technical evidence shows Iran launched ballistic missiles into Turkish territory.
Fidan disclosed that after NATO air defense systems intercepted a ballistic missile on Friday, he had a conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. According to Turkish officials, this was the third missile launch at Turkey in nine days.
Iran denied any role during the discussion, maintaining that it neither ordered nor carried out the strike. Fidan said that Ankara is addressing the matter with Tehran through both diplomatic and military channels and that the existing technical information refutes such claims.
The Turkish minister emphasized the strength of Turkey's deterrent capabilities by stressing that his nation would not be frightened by what he called provocations. He claimed that Ankara is aware of when and how to react if needed.
A ballistic missile fired from Iran was intercepted by NATO forces earlier this month on March 4 and again on March 9. Tehran has denied any involvement in either of the events.
The events coincide with increased tensions in the region, especially since U.S. forces are stationed at two significant NATO bases in Turkey: Incirlik Air installation, which is close to Adana, and the Kürecik radar installation, which has an early warning system intended to identify Iranian missile launches.
As talks with Iranian authorities continue, Turkish officials say the most recent incident is being closely watched.
