NATO intercepts Iranian ballistic missile toward Turkey, reaffirms commitment to protect all allies

NATO announced on Monday that it intercepted another ballistic missile launched toward Turkey, reaffirming the alliance’s readiness to defend all members against any threat, said spokesperson Allison Hart via X.

Earlier Monday, the Turkish Ministry of Defense reported that a ballistic missile launched by Iran entered Turkish airspace before being intercepted by NATO forces. Some debris fell in open areas of Gaziantep province, but there were no casualties, the ministry added.

NATO has again intercepted a missile heading to Türkiye. NATO stands firm in its readiness to defend all Allies against any threat
— NATO Spokesperson (@NATOpress) March 9, 2026

In a separate X statement, Turkey’s Communications Director Burhanettin Duran confirmed that NATO’s systems engaged the threat “in a timely manner” over the Sahinbey district of Gaziantep.

“We once again strongly warn all parties, especially Iran, to refrain from actions that could endanger regional security and put civilians at risk,” Duran emphasized.

Last Wednesday, the Turkish Ministry of Defense said a ballistic projectile from Iran targeting Turkish airspace had been intercepted and neutralized by NATO air and missile defense units in the Eastern Mediterranean.

A ballistic missile launched from Iran and detected heading towards Türkiye was timely engaged and neutralised by NATO air and missile defence assets over the Şahinbey district of Gaziantep. No casualties or injuries have been reported in the incident.

The development has been…
— Burhanettin Duran (@burhanduran) March 9, 2026

These developments occur amid ongoing U.S.-Israel strikes against Iran, which began on February 28 and have reportedly killed more than 1,200 people, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Tehran has retaliated with drone and missile attacks targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf states hosting U.S. military assets.