NATO Destroys Third Iranian Missile Over Turkey Since Conflict Started

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) air defense systems destroyed a third Iranian missile over Turkey Friday since the Iran conflict began, the country’s defense ministry confirmed.

NATO assets deployed in the Eastern Mediterranean disarm a ballistic missile that Iran launched into Turkish airspace. Reports suggest that the interception caused no casualties.

“A ballistic munition launched from Iran and entering Turkish airspace was neutralized by NATO air and missile defense assets deployed in the Eastern Mediterranean,” the ministry said.

Naija News reported on Monday that NATO intercepted a second Iranian ballistic missile over Turkey. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warned Iran against further “provocative steps” after that incident.

Iran, however, has denied launching any missile toward Turkey following Monday’s interception.

In addition, Naija News gathered that Erdogan said Turkish forces have stayed on high alert since the conflict began. Turkey monitors its airspace continuously using F-16 fighter jets, airborne early warning aircraft and tanker planes.

The third interception in one week shows Iran struggles to control where its missiles land during the ongoing conflict with the United States and Israel.

Several missiles and drones have entered Turkish territory despite Tehran saying it does not target neighbouring countries.

Turkey shares a border with Iran and belongs to NATO. Ankara has said it will act decisively against any threats to its territory while trying to stay out of the wider regional conflict.