Turkey’s defense forces, in coordination with NATO, successfully intercepted a ballistic missile fired from Iran that was headed toward Turkish airspace, the Turkish Defence Ministry confirmed on Wednesday.

The missile, which passed through Syrian and Iraqi airspace before turning toward Turkey, was neutralized by NATO air and missile defense systems stationed in the eastern Mediterranean. The incident represents the first direct involvement of Turkey, a NATO member and Iran’s neighbor to the northwest, in the widening Middle East conflict between Iran and the U.S. and Israel.

Debris from the destroyed missile fell in the Dörtyol district of Hatay province in southeastern Turkey. The ministry emphasized that there were no casualties or injuries from the interception.

In a statement, the ministry warned all parties to avoid actions that could further escalate the conflict, affirming that Turkey would continue consultations with NATO and other allies. “All necessary steps to defend our territory and airspace will be taken resolutely and without hesitation. We reserve the right to respond to any hostile actions against our country,” it said.

The successful interception demonstrates NATO’s operational capabilities in the region and Turkey’s readiness to protect its airspace amid rising tensions in the Middle East.

The ministry reiterated that Ankara’s resolve to ensure the security of the country and its citizens is “at the highest level,” calling for restraint from all parties to prevent the conflict from widening.