On the afternoon of March 5, drone attacks were carried out against the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic of the Republic of Azerbaijan from the territory of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The strikes primarily targeted the Nakhchivan airport.
Speaking to "Operativ Information Center-OMM", Khayal Bashirov, chairman of the Center for Political and Legal Studies (SHAM), stated that the state and people of Azerbaijan did not expect such a move from Iran. He emphasized that for many years, Azerbaijan has openly declared its respect for Iran's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence, a position repeatedly expressed by the country's leadership and other officials.
Bashirov highlighted that Azerbaijan's approach to all conflicts is based on the principles of international law. He noted that if Azerbaijan had even the slightest involvement in processes directed against Iran, Baku would have anticipated such an attack and taken the necessary security measures. According to the expert, if the attack had been expected, Azerbaijan's border guards, armed forces, and air defense systems would have neutralized the drones in time. "This fact shows that Azerbaijan did not expect such an attack because Azerbaijan's position has always been clear," he said.
The analyst added that during previous regional tensions, Azerbaijan explicitly stated that its territory would never be used by any force against Iran. Despite this, he characterized the step taken toward Nakhchivan as a "stab in the back" by Iran against Azerbaijan. Bashirov believes that in accordance with the justified demands of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Defense, the Iranian side must provide an official position and explanation regarding the purpose of the attack. "Only when substantiated evidence is presented and a detailed explanation is given regarding who committed the incident can the matter be clarified," he added.
The expert noted that attacking an airport used by civilians and areas near schools contradicts the principles of international law and interstate relations. He recalled that Baku had previously expressed concerns regarding Iranian trucks entering territories not then under Azerbaijan's full control and support provided to the former illegal regime. While there had been recent positive dynamics in bilateral relations, including visits by the Iranian President, Bashirov warned that this incident could deal a serious blow to those ties. Azerbaijan has already submitted a note to Iran through official channels demanding an explanation, asserting that if such incidents continue, the state will take necessary and adequate steps to ensure its security.
Nakhchivan, an exclave of Azerbaijan, holds strategic importance due to its borders with Turkey, Armenia, and Iran. The region has been a focal point for regional transport projects, including the proposed Zangezur corridor. Under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, Azerbaijan has consistently prioritized the security and development of Nakhchivan, integrating it into the country's broader defense and economic framework. Any military provocation against this region is viewed by Baku as a direct threat to national security and regional stability.
