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Iranian drones target Nakhchivan International Airport in Azerbaijan in a reported cross border attack that injured civilians and damaged infrastructure in the autonomous Nakhchivan region on Thursday.
Authorities in Azerbaijan said multiple drones launched from Iranian territory struck locations in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. The strikes caused material damage to several facilities and injured at least two civilians.
Officials confirmed that emergency services responded quickly to the affected areas while security forces began investigations into the incident.
The attack comes at a time of rising tensions across the region following recent military developments involving Iran and several international actors.
Drone Strike Hits Airport Building
According to the Azerbaijani state news agency AZERTAC, one drone struck the building of Nakhchivan International Airport.
The impact of the Iranian drones target Nakhchivan International Airport reportedly caused visible structural damage to the airport facility. Authorities have not yet released a detailed assessment of the damage or confirmed whether airport operations were disrupted.
Emergency response teams and airport officials secured the area shortly after the explosion to prevent further risks.
Officials also began examining debris from the drone in order to determine its origin and technical specifications.
Investigators are continuing to gather information to understand how the drone crossed into Azerbaijani airspace.
Second Explosion Reported Near School
A second drone reportedly exploded near a school building in the village of Shekarabad, also located within the Nakhchivan region.
Local authorities said the blast injured two civilians. Medical teams responded to the scene and provided treatment to those affected.
Several nearby structures sustained damage due to the explosion, including residential buildings and local infrastructure.
Officials stated that the situation is currently under control, though security patrols have been increased throughout the region as a precaution.
Residents were also advised to remain alert while authorities continue their investigation.
Azerbaijan Issues Strong Condemnation
The government of Azerbaijan condemned the drone strikes and described them as a serious violation of international law.
Officials in the capital city of Baku stated that the attack posed a direct threat to regional security and civilian infrastructure.
Azerbaijani authorities called on the government of Iran to provide immediate explanations regarding the drone launches.
Government representatives emphasized that Azerbaijan expects steps to be taken to prevent similar incidents from occurring again.
Officials added that protecting national sovereignty and civilian safety remains a top priority.
Iranian Ambassador Summoned
Following the incident, Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Iran’s ambassador to the country, Mojtaba Demirchilou.
During the meeting, Azerbaijani officials delivered a formal diplomatic protest note.
The statement issued by the ministry stressed Azerbaijan’s right under international law to take appropriate measures to defend its territory and civilian infrastructure.
Authorities also requested a full investigation into the incident and demanded assurances that such attacks will not be repeated.
Diplomatic communications between the two countries are expected to continue as both sides address the situation.
Link to Wider Regional Tensions
The attack occurred during a period of heightened tensions across the Middle East and surrounding regions.
In recent days, Iran has reportedly launched missile and drone attacks toward several locations following military strikes on sites inside Iran.
Those strikes were reportedly carried out by forces associated with the United States and Israel as part of the escalating confrontation.
Security analysts warn that continued retaliatory actions could increase instability across multiple regions if diplomatic efforts fail to ease tensions.
Strategic Importance of Nakhchivan
The Nakhchivan region holds strategic importance because it is geographically separated from the rest of Azerbaijan.
It borders both Iran and Turkey, making it a sensitive location for regional security.
Military or drone activity near this area can raise concerns about broader instability in the South Caucasus.
Experts note that cross border incidents involving drones have become more common in modern conflicts due to their relatively low cost and long range capabilities.
Authorities in Azerbaijan say investigations are ongoing while security forces continue monitoring the situation in the region.
Officials also stated that updates will be provided as more verified information becomes available.
