Iran Warns Bulgaria Against Allowing Use of Bezmer Air Base for Actions Against It by the US

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has warned his Bulgarian counterpart, Velislav Petrov-Chamova, that granting permission for the Bezmer air base to be used by American military aircraft in operations against Iran equates to participating in aggression. This statement was made during a phone conversation on Thursday, as reported by the Tasnim news agency.

According to the Iranian Foreign Minister, Sofia's decision to allow the US to deploy military aviation at the Bezmer air base to support actions against Iran is unacceptable and contradicts the traditionally friendly relations between the two countries. Araghchi called on Bulgarian authorities to immediately reconsider this decision.

He referenced UN General Assembly Resolution 3314, which states that if a state provides its territory to another state for the purpose of aggression against a third country, it could be regarded as an act of aggression.

Araghchi emphasized that Iran will not abandon its defense of national interests and security, adding that any party that participates in military operations against Iran in any form will bear responsibility for the consequences.

In response, Bulgaria's Foreign Minister stated that Sofia does not intend to participate in the war. She recalled the long-standing friendly relations between Bulgaria and Iran and reaffirmed Bulgaria's support for diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions in the Middle East.