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

Aliyev Vows Attacks on Azerbaijan ‘Will Face Our Iron Fist’ After Iran Drone Strike

On Thursday, President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan ordered the military into full combat readiness following an attack by Tehran’s drones on the Nakhchivan International Airport passenger terminal and a rural school. The strike injured four civilians, prompting Aliyev to declare that the armed forces would prepare and enact retaliatory actions. During a Security Council meeting, he emphasized Iran’s need to apologize and provide explanations, asserting that those behind the attack would face criminal consequences. Aliyev also highlighted that the incident was not an isolated act, offering additional context to signal a broader pattern of Tehran’s aggression.

Aliyev’s assertive stance echoed his response to the Azerbaijan Airlines Flight 8243 crash in December 2024, where he directly blamed Russia for downing the aircraft. He reiterated that “all necessary instructions” had been given to outline a plan of action against the perceived threat. Hours after the council meeting, Azerbaijan suspended cross-border traffic with Iran, signaling a shift in diplomatic and military posture. The president also referenced previous incidents he claimed were orchestrated by Iran, underscoring ongoing tensions over the Azerbaijani community in Iran and the nation’s strong ties with Israel.

“Thursday morning, the deputy foreign minister of Iran called Baku and asked Azerbaijan to assist in evacuating Iranian embassy staff remaining in Lebanon because they lacked the means to do so. I immediately instructed that assistance be provided and that an aircraft be sent. They even said they were ready to pay for it. I said it was not necessary — if we do not help in difficult times, when should we help? And in return for all this, to strike Nakhchivan in such a treacherous and dishonorable manner? This stain will never be erased from their disgraceful image,” Aliyev said.

Iran’s attack, which it denies, swiftly drew condemnation from Turkey, Azerbaijan’s key regional ally. A ministry statement condemned the drone strikes, affirming Ankara’s continued support for Baku. Despite the escalation, Aliyev reiterated that Azerbaijan had not and would not engage in any operations against Iran, emphasizing the country’s commitment to maintaining relations even amid rising hostilities.