site.btaCaretaker Defence Minister: Bulgaria Plays No Part in Israeli Attack on Iran, US Planes Remain in Sofia

Caretaker Defence Minister Atanas Zapryanov stressed that “Bulgaria is in no way participating” in the joint US-Israeli attack against Iran. In an interview with bTV on Saturday, he said that the state is calling for efforts to seek a path toward de-escalation.

“I want to reassure Bulgarian citizens that this operation currently under way does not involve the Bulgarian state in any way. There is no immediate danger for Bulgaria arising from what is happening there,” the caretaker Defence Minister added.

"Ten KC-135 aerial refuelling tanker aircraft remain at Sofia Airport. As previously announced – both in the diplomatic note and in the request submitted by the United States – this constitutes a deployment on Bulgarian territory for the purpose of training related to the enhanced forward presence on NATO’s eastern flank. These are Bulgaria’s commitments under collective defence arrangements," Zapryanov said, adding that the aircraft are logistical in nature and that similar planes are stationed in other neighbouring countries as well.

Asked whether the aircraft could be redirected towards Iran, Zapryanov replied that the planes are in Sofia and no flights with them are currently planned, stressing that the purpose of their deployment remains unchanged.

The caretaker Prime Minister will convene the Security Council later on Saturday.