Photo: AP Photo
After the U.S. Embassy in Albania warned that Iran-affiliated groups could target Americans and U.S.-affiliated organizations in the country, authorities in Tirana put security agencies on high alert.
“The president is being informed of every situation and scenario and all measures taken in accordance with security protocols,” Euronews quoted a statement from the office of Albanian President Bajram Begay as saying.
Tirana’s reaction followed a warning by the US embassy that Tehran-backed groups could target not only Washington-affiliated organizations but also members of the Iranian opposition based in Albania.
The embassy warned that public places, including tourist areas, shopping centers, hotels, restaurants and clubs, could be at risk and urged vigilance and reporting of suspicious activity.
Developments in Bulgaria point to heightened tensions
At the same time, events in Bulgaria point to broader regional tensions.
Sofia confirmed that Iran sent a diplomatic note last month warning Bulgaria against the use by U.S. military aircraft of its airports for operations against Iran.
The warning came after reports that U.S. warplanes had been spotted in Sofia.
Speaking to NOVA television channel, Bulgarian Foreign Minister Nadezhda Neinsky called the message ordinary, though significant.
“This is normal diplomatic practice in times of crisis, not a threat but a warning,” she said, emphasizing that Bulgaria had assured Tehran that it was not involved in any military action, there were no combat flights over its airspace and no planes were refueling on the territory.
Neinski added that the note was not made public earlier so as not to cause public concern, especially during the ongoing election campaign when national security issues are highly sensitive.
Recall, early parliamentary elections in Bulgaria will be held on April 19, 2026.
