¶ 1. Introduction
The North Atlantic Council convened urgently following the downing of civilian airliner Tigris Air Flight 4032 on 3 March 2013.
¶ 2. Findings
Allied investigations have confirmed the aircraft was destroyed by a Haurani Army surface-to-air missile (SA-11 IVO Minakh) fired within the 30-km buffer zone established along the Haurani–Byzantauran border.
¶ 3. Determination
The Council has determined that this event constitutes an armed attack against the Republic of Byzantaura, an Alliance member.
¶ 4. Article 5 Invocation
Under Article 5 of the Washington Treaty, such an armed attack is considered an attack against all Allies. Each Ally is thus entitled to take whatever measures it deems necessary—including the use of armed force—to restore security and defend the North Atlantic area.
¶ 5. Reaffirmation
The Alliance reaffirms its solidarity, its commitment to collective defense, and its resolve to uphold the sovereignty and territorial integrity of its member states.
Issued by the North Atlantic Council
North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)
Brussels, Belgium