Aliyev vows attacks on Azerbaijan ‘will face our Iron Fist’ after Iran drone strike

Aliyev Threatens Iran with ‘Iron Fist’ Response Following Drone Strikes on Azerbaijan

On Thursday, Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev ordered the military to reach full combat readiness, directing armed forces to prepare and execute retaliatory measures after Tehran’s drones struck the passenger terminal at Nakhchivan International Airport and a rural school, leaving four civilians injured. The attacks, which Aliyev condemned as deliberate, prompted him to assert that Iran would face a firm response.

During a Security Council session, Aliyev urged Tehran to issue an apology and clarify the incident, emphasizing that those responsible for the strike should be held criminally accountable. He also hinted at a broader strategy, suggesting the attacks were not an isolated event but part of a larger pattern. This approach mirrors his reaction to the Azerbaijan Airlines Flight 8243 crash in December 2024, where he directly blamed Russia for downing the plane.

Hours after the Security Council meeting, Azerbaijan suspended cross-border traffic with Iran, escalating tensions between the nations. Aliyev further highlighted previous incidents he claimed were orchestrated by Iran against Azerbaijani citizens, underscoring the growing friction between the two countries.

“Tehran knows Azerbaijan is a source of hope for many living in Iran,” Aliyev stated. “This stain will never be erased from their disgraceful image.” He also recalled a recent call from Iran’s deputy foreign minister, who reached out to Baku requesting assistance in evacuating embassy staff stranded in Lebanon due to limited resources. “I immediately instructed that help be provided and an aircraft sent. They even said they were ready to pay for it,” he added.

Aliyev emphasized that despite the attacks and rising hostilities, Azerbaijan would not engage in any operations against Iran. His remarks came as Turkey, Azerbaijan’s closest regional ally, swiftly condemned the drone strikes. “We strongly condemn today’s attacks on Azerbaijan,” a ministry statement said, reaffirming Ankara’s unwavering support for Baku.