Iran issues stark warning to Bulgaria over US aircraft access

Iranian authorities have warned Bulgaria not to allow the United States to use its airports for aircraft involved in military operations against Iran, the Bulgarian foreign ministry confirmed.

The warning was conveyed in a diplomatic note dated March 18, in which Tehran protested against US military refuelling planes stationed at Sofia’s Vasil Levski Airport. The development was first highlighted by Stanislav Balabanov, a lawmaker from the “There is Such People” party, Reuters reports.

In the note, Iran stated that it “reserves the right to take all necessary measures to protect its sovereignty, security and national interests in accordance with international law.”

Speaking to reporters, Bulgarian Deputy Foreign Minister Marin Raikov confirmed the communication, while emphasizing Sofia’s neutral stance. “Bulgaria is not at war,” he said, adding, “No combat aircraft are being loaded over Bulgaria to participate in military operations. We maintain intact diplomatic relations with the Iranian side.”

Raikov also noted that the presence of US aircraft at the airport was linked to NATO’s forward deployment activities, following earlier reports in Bulgarian media that several American military planes had landed at the civilian facility in late February.

“Our parliament has not approved decisions to support relevant military actions in the Strait of Hormuz region,” he added.

The incident comes amid heightened regional tensions and reflects broader unease among European countries over US military operations linked to the conflict with Iran. Several nations have taken steps to limit involvement, with Spain closing its airspace, Italy declining a stopover request at Sigonella air base, and France blocking overflight of US–Israel weapons flights.

By Vafa Guliyeva