Baku: On March 5, a meeting of the Security Council was held under the chairmanship of President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, APA reports. The head of state delivered a speech at the event, condemning Iran's recent drone attack on Azerbaijan's territory.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, President Aliyev accused Iran of committing an act of terror by firing unmanned aerial vehicles into the territory of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. The attacks targeted civilian facilities, including the Nakhchivan International Airport, its terminal, and a school. President Aliyev demanded accountability from Iranian officials, calling for an explanation, an apology, and criminal liability for those responsible.
President Aliyev recalled previous acts of terror allegedly orchestrated by Iran, including an attack on the Azerbaijani embassy in Tehran. He detailed how a person reportedly instructed by Iranian special services attacked the embassy, resulting in the death of one Azerbaijani citizen and the injury of another. The President criticized the lack of response from Iranian security forces during the incident, asserting that it was masterminded at the highest levels of the Iranian state.
The President emphasized that Azerbaijan had previously reacted strongly to such incidents, suspending diplomatic relations and demanding severe punishment for the perpetrators. He warned that Azerbaijan would not tolerate the recent attack on Nakhchivan and instructed the Armed Forces to prepare retaliatory measures.
President Aliyev also addressed unfounded accusations from Iran and a smear campaign against Azerbaijan by Iranian state-controlled media. He reiterated Azerbaijan's stance of not participating in operations against Iran or any neighboring country, emphasizing the nation's focus on territorial integrity and readiness to defend itself against any threats.
In response to the current situation, Azerbaijan has taken diplomatic steps, including summoning the Iranian ambassador and issuing a note of protest. President Aliyev also disclosed a recent request from Iran for assistance in evacuating its embassy staff from Lebanon, which Azerbaijan agreed to, highlighting the contrast between Azerbaijan's goodwill and Iran's actions.
The President concluded by stating that all necessary measures would be taken through diplomatic channels and that Azerbaijan's Armed Forces and special forces were on high alert, ready for any required operation. He assured the Azerbaijani people of their safety and the country's readiness to confront any threats with strength.