Aliyev vows attacks on Azerbaijan ‘will face our Iron Fist’ after Iran drone strike
Aliyev Vows Retaliatory Action After Iran’s Drone Strike on Azerbaijan
President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan ordered the military to reach maximum operational preparedness on Thursday following an attack by Iranian drones. The strikes targeted the passenger terminal of Nakhchivan International Airport and a rural school, resulting in injuries to four civilians. The president emphasized that Iran must offer a formal apology and clarify its actions, stating that those responsible for the attack should face criminal consequences.
Security Council Meeting and Stance on Iran
Aliyev chaired the Security Council on Thursday, underscoring his firm position. He asserted that Tehran’s actions were not isolated and outlined plans for a coordinated response. The president also highlighted the country’s growing ties with Israel, while noting rising tensions over the Azerbaijani minority in Iran. Despite these challenges, he reiterated that Azerbaijan would not engage in any operations against Iran.
“Thursday morning, the deputy foreign minister of Iran called Baku and asked Azerbaijan to assist in evacuating Iranian embassy staff remaining in Lebanon because they lacked the means to do so. I immediately instructed that assistance be provided and that an aircraft be sent. They even said they were ready to pay for it. I said it was not necessary — if we do not help in difficult times, when should we help? And in return for all this, to strike Nakhchivan in such a treacherous and dishonorable manner? This stain will never be erased from their disgraceful image,” Aliyev stated.
Hours after the Security Council meeting, Azerbaijan suspended cross-border traffic with Iran. The decision came amid escalating concerns over Tehran’s alleged aggression, with Aliyev citing multiple past incidents as evidence. He described Iran’s attack as a calculated move, pointing to the country’s role as a source of hope for many Azerbaijanis living in Iran.
Historical Context and International Response
Aliyev’s assertive approach mirrors his reaction to the Azerbaijan Airlines Flight 8243 crash in December 2024, where he directly blamed Russia for the incident. This latest drone strike has drawn swift condemnation from Turkey, Azerbaijan’s key regional ally. A ministry statement declared, “We strongly condemn the drone attacks carried out today on Azerbaijan,” affirming Ankara’s continued support for Baku.
