Iran Denies Attacking Azerbaijan, Deputy Foreign Minister: We Do Not Target Neighbouring Countries

Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi has rejected claims that Iran targeted Azerbaijan, saying Tehran did not intend to strike its neighbour. Iran said the strikes targeted military bases of its enemies operating in the area and used to attack Iran, including bases belonging to the US and Israel. Gharibabadi’s statement followed earlier reports that two Iranian drones attacked the autonomous region of Nakhchivan, including an airport building. “The Islamic Republic of Iran does not target the Republic of Azerbaijan,” he told Tasnim News Agency, quoted by Al Jazeera on Thursday (5 March 2026). “We do not target our neighbouring countries,” he added. He said the attack was aimed at enemy bases active in the area and used to attack Iran, including US and Israeli bases. At least two drones crossed the border from Iranian territory into Nakhchivan, hitting the airport area and the vicinity of a school in the village of Shekerabad, according to Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry. The ministry said one drone struck the terminal building of Nakhchivan Airport, while another hit near a school in Shekerabad. Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry also said the drone strike damaged the airport and injured two civilians. The incident occurred as Iran launched a string of retaliatory strikes against US and Israeli targets on its territory since Saturday (28 February). Tehran has targeted Israel and Gulf states hosting US troops. In response to the drone attack, Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry summoned the Iranian diplomat in Baku to register a “strong protest”. Azerbaijani authorities stressed that such attacks are “contrary to norms and principles of international law and contribute to rising regional tensions.” “Azerbaijan reserves the right to take appropriate retaliatory action,” the Foreign Ministry said.