Iran’s armed forces deny firing missile towards Turkey

March 5, 2026: The Iran Armed Forces have denied claims that a missile was fired into Turkey, emphasizing their respect for Turkey’s territorial integrity.

“The Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran dismiss firing any missile into Turkey,” the Chief Staff of the Armed Forces said in an official statement on Thursday. They added that Iran fully respects the sovereignty of its neighboring and friendly country.

Turkey Claims Missile Interception

The statement from Tehran comes after the Turkey Ministry of National Defense reported that NATO air defense systems had intercepted a ballistic missile that allegedly originated from Iran.

• According to Turkey, the missile was shot down after passing over Syria and Iraq.

• The target of the missile remains unknown.

Turkey’s Incirlik Air Base was mentioned as a key location in the reports. The base is controlled by the Turkish Air Force and also hosts US and NATO forces. Incirlik has been used historically for major operations, including the 1991 Gulf War and US-led missions in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Iran Responds Amid Ongoing US-Israel Attacks

Iran is currently engaged in military operations following what it calls unprovoked US-Israeli aggression that began last Saturday.

• Iranian forces have launched drone and missile strikes targeting US military assets in the region.

• Officials insist all operations are defensive in nature and aimed at protecting Iranian territory and interests.

Tehran’s denial seeks to de-escalate tensions with Turkey, a neighboring country and important regional partner, amid rising volatility in the Middle East.