Drone Attacks Target Azerbaijan's Nakhchivan Region
On March 5, 2026, drones launched from Iranian territory struck the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic of Azerbaijan. One drone hit the terminal building at Nakhchivan Airport, causing damage to the infrastructure. A second drone crashed near a school building in the village of Shakarabad. These attacks resulted in injuries to two civilians. The Nakhchivan region is an Azerbaijani exclave bordered by Iran, Turkey, and Armenia, making its security situation geopolitically sensitive.
Azerbaijan's Diplomatic and Military Response
In response, Azerbaijan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Iran's Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Mojtaba Demirchilu. A formal protest was issued and a note of protest was handed over. The Azerbaijani side strongly condemned the attacks, stating they violate the norms and principles of international law and contribute to heightened regional tensions.
'We strongly condemn these drone attacks carried out from the territory of the Islamic Republic of Iran, which resulted in damage to the airport building and injuries to two civilians.' Azerbaijan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Furthermore, Azerbaijan's Ministry of Defense, State Border Service, and Ministry of Internal Affairs announced an elevated combat readiness for their forces along the border with Iran. 'We demand that the Islamic Republic of Iran provide a clear explanation regarding this incident in the shortest possible time, conduct a proper investigation, and take the necessary urgent measures to ensure such attacks are not repeated in the future. The Azerbaijani side reserves the right to take appropriate response measures,' the Foreign Ministry emphasized.
This incident marks the first time an Iranian drone has struck the territory of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. The event underscores a significant escalation in the complex relationship between Baku and Tehran, which involves historical tensions and competing regional interests.