Turkey says NATO defences intercepted third missile from Iran, asks Tehran to clarify

Turkey has not suggested it wants to formally call on alliance members for protection. Read more at straitstimes.com.

ANKARA – NATO air defences in the eastern Mediterranean have shot down a third ballistic missile that was fired from Iran towards Turkey, the Turkish Defence Ministry said on March 13, adding that it was asking Tehran for clarification.

NATO air defences shot down the first Iranian ballistic missile fired at Turkey on March 4, followed by the shooting down of a second Iranian missile on March 9.

The ministry has said the first incoming missile was downed en route to Turkish airspace, while the second entered it.

The missiles increasingly pose a test for NATO member Ankara and the alliance. Turkey, NATO’s second-largest army and Iran’s neighbour, has warned Tehran against any more attacks.

It also protested to Tehran after every incident, but has not suggested it wants to formally call on alliance members for protection.

“All necessary measures are being taken decisively and without hesitation against any threat directed at our country’s territory and airspace. Consultations are being conducted with the relevant country to clarify all aspects of the incident,” the ministry said in a statement.