Iran Warns Turkey on Patriot Missiles

Iran’s foreign ministry spokesman Ramin Mehmanparast today warned Turkey that deploying the Patriot missile system “will not only not help solve the situation in Syria, it will actually make the situation more difficult and complicated as well.” (ISNA, 25 November)

Earlier today, Iran’s parliament speaker Ali Larijani returning from a trip to Syria and Turkey told reporters in Tehran that “The installation of such systems in the region has negative effects and will intensify problems in the region.” (IRNA, 25 November)

Syria has also called Turkey's request for the Patriot missiles “provocative,” and Russia said the move could increase risks in the conflict.

Turkey has asked NATO to deploy the system, designed to intercept aircraft or missiles, at its 900-km (560-mile) border with Syria. Turkey has said it wants to shore up security at its border as heavy fighting has often erupted between the Syrian rebels and government forces along the Turkish border. However, Iran and other supporters of Assad regime fear that the move could be the first step toward implementing a no-fly zone over Syrian airspace.

Turkey said no countries should be concerned by the use of Patriots.

“These systems are solely defensive mechanisms, and will not become active unless there is a direct threat to our country's security,” said Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu. “The aim of this action is to protect Turkey's borders as much as possible at a time of crisis. The Patriots will be sent back when the risks to Turkey's security disappear.” (CNN Turk/Reuters, 25 November)