This alert comes after the Bulgarian government’s proposal to temporarily station up to eight US aerial refuelling planes at Bezmer Air Base in the country’s southeast region.
Iran has delivered a clear warning to Bulgaria regarding plans to host US military aircraft, emphasizing that Sofia must prevent its territory from becoming a launch site for actions against Tehran.
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The alert follows a Bulgarian government plan that involves temporarily deploying up to eight US aerial refuelling aircraft at Bezmer Air Base located in the southeast of the country.
Esmail Baghaei, spokesperson for the Iranian Foreign Ministry, stated that any assistance in support of US attacks would implicate Bulgaria in what Tehran labels as “aggression and war crimes.”
Despite these concerns, Sofia and Washington have minimized the issue, maintaining that the deployment is purely defensive and unrelated to military operations in the Middle East.
The US European Command has expressed that it is monitoring the situation closely and stays prepared to address any emerging threats.
“The United States sustains regional defense capabilities along NATO’s eastern border, including within Bulgaria, and collaborates closely with the Bulgarian government as well as allied and partner nations in the wider region,” the command stated.
“We remain alert and equipped to respond to any potential threats.”
The aircraft were initially stationed at Sofia Airport but were asked to vacate the civilian facility by the end of June. After the US renewed its request, the Bulgarian authorities suggested relocating them to the military base at Bezmer.
Aerial refuelling planes enhance the endurance of fighter jets and other military aircraft by refueling them mid-flight, extending their time in the air.
Bulgaria’s Foreign Ministry has firmly dismissed assertions that the country could serve as a base for attacks on Iran.
“Any military operations in the Middle East launched from Bulgarian territory are completely out of the question,” the ministry declared.
The Bulgarian government further clarified that it has no hostile intentions toward Tehran and urged Iran and the United States to cease military activities and resume negotiations aimed at establishing a lasting ceasefire.
This exchange arises amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran following the failure of a temporary truce.
This is not Iran’s first warning to Bulgaria: in April, Tehran issued a diplomatic note to Sofia advising against the use of Bulgarian airports by US military aircraft for operations directed at Iran.