NATO shoots down Iranian ballistic missile in Turkish airspace

Türkiye's defence ministry has said it has shot down an Iranian ballistic missile in its airspace.

"A ballistic munition launched from Iran and entering Turkish airspace was neutralised by NATO air and missile defence assets deployed in the Eastern Mediterranean," Türkiye's defence ministry stated.

Debris from the missile fell on empty fields in Gaziantep province and nobody was killed or injured.

"Türkiye places great importance on good neighbourly relations and regional stability. However, we once again emphasise that all necessary measures will be taken decisively and without hesitation against any threat directed at our country's territory and airspace," the ministry added.

"We once again strongly reiterate our warning to all parties, particularly Iran, to refrain from actions that could endanger regional security and put civilians at risk," the Turkish president's office said.

Last week, an Iranian ballistic missile heading towards Türkiye was shot down by a US destroyer in the Mediterranean as part of NATO air defences.

Türkiye summoned Iran's ambassador over the incident. AFP reported that Ankara believes Turkish military bases were not the intended target.

NATO expressed solidarity with Türkiye and said its response to the missile threat demonstrated the alliance's ability to protect the citizens of its member states.