Azerbaijan Condemns Iranian Drone Attack, Summons Ambassador as Videos Show Smoke and Flames at Nakhchivan Airport

Azerbaijan has strongly condemned drone strikes launched from Iranian territory that hit the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, damaging civilian infrastructure and injuring two people. In response, the Iranian Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Mojtaba Demirchilou, was summoned to the Foreign Ministry for a formal protest. 

Details of the Strike 

Officials said the attack happened around midday on March 5. Two drones crossed into Azerbaijani territory: 

- One struck the terminal building of Nakhchivan International Airport, causing visible damage. 

- Another crashed near a school in Shakarabad village, injuring two civilians. 

Images and videos from the site showed smoke and fire at the airport following the strike. 

 Strong Condemnation 

The Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs both issued statements condemning the attacks. They described the strikes as a violation of international law and said they increased tensions in the region. 

 “We strongly condemn these drone attacks launched from Iranian territory, which damaged the airport building and injured civilians,” the Foreign Ministry said. 

Demand for Accountability 

Azerbaijan demanded that Iran provide a clear explanation, conduct an investigation, and take urgent steps to prevent such incidents from happening again. Officials stressed that Iran bears full responsibility for the attack. 

The government also stated that it reserves the right to take appropriate retaliatory measures to defend its sovereignty and protect civilians. 

Summoning of Iranian Ambassador 

Following the incident, Ambassador Mojtaba Demirchilou was called to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. A strong protest was delivered, and a formal note of protest was handed over to the Iranian side. 

“This attack against the territory of Azerbaijan violates international law and escalates regional tensions,” the statement declared.  

Regional Impact 

Azerbaijan warned that the drone strikes not only violated international norms but also risked destabilizing the wider region. Officials emphasized that such acts of aggression would not go unanswered. 

The Iranian Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Mojtaba Demirchilou, was summoned to the Foreign Ministry, where officials lodged a formal protest and delivered a diplomatic note.  

 With Reuters, ANI inputs