United News of Bangladesh

Azerbaijan has pulled its diplomatic staff from Iran following an alleged drone strike on its Nakhchivan exclave, heightening regional tensions as the Middle East conflict spreads north. The drones reportedly targeted the airport, a school, and other locations, causing civilian injuries. One drone was shot down by Azerbaijani forces. President Ilham Aliyev condemned the attacks as an “act of terror” and demanded an explanation and apology from Tehran. Aliyev announced the withdrawal of staff from Azerbaijan’s embassy in Tehran and its consulate in Tabriz “for their own safety,” and declared that the military has been placed on maximum combat readiness. The president also referenced Iran’s ethnic Azerbaijani population, signalling concerns over regional stability. Iran has denied responsibility for the strikes, suggesting the attacks may have been an Israeli false-flag operation. Analysts note that Nakhchivan’s strategic location bordering Iran, Turkey, and Armenia makes it particularly vulnerable during regional conflicts. The escalation comes amid rising mistrust between Baku and Tehran, fueled by Azerbaijan’s defense partnerships with Israel, historic tensions over Armenia, and Iran’s domestic treatment of its ethnic Azerbaijani minority. Azerbaijan has also highlighted that its close ties with Israel include intelligence and energy cooperation, further straining relations with Tehran. Despite the attack, Aliyev stressed that Azerbaijan “will not participate” in military operations against Iran, while warning that threats to its territory could have broader regional consequences. The incident underscores the widening impact of the Middle East war and its potential to destabilise neighbouring countries and energy routes.   With inputs froom BBC