Marina Stoimenova
Published on April 2, 2026 – 20:51 UTC+2Updated at 21:14
After the US Embassy in Albania warned that Iranian-linked groups could target Americans and US-affiliated entities in the Western Balkans, Tirana authorities declared that security institutions were on alert, with all mechanisms “active and functional.”
In a statement released on Thursday, Albanian President Bajram Begaj’s office stated that they were in daily contact with the National Security Council and were constantly informed of all potential threats.
The Albanian National Security Council brings together state officials to assess risks and recommend measures but does not make binding decisions.
“The president is informed of all situations and scenarios, as well as all measures taken within security protocols,” the presidency said in a statement, adding that coordination with international partners remained at “extremely high levels.”
This response follows a warning from the US Embassy that Tehran-backed groups could target not only US-affiliated entities but also members of the Iranian opposition based in Albania.
The embassy warned that public spaces – including tourist areas, shopping centers, hotels, restaurants, and clubs – could be threatened, urging vigilance and reporting of any suspicious activity.
Tensions across the region
Meanwhile, developments in Bulgaria highlight broader regional tensions.
Sofia authorities confirmed that Iran had sent a diplomatic note to Bulgaria last month, a NATO member, warning against allowing the use of its airports by US military aircraft for operations involving Iran, after several aircraft were spotted in Sofia.
Speaking to the NOVA television channel, former Foreign Minister Nadejda Neynski described the message as routine but significant.
“It is a normal diplomatic practice in times of crisis. It is not a threat, but a warning,” she said, emphasizing that Bulgaria had assured Tehran that it was not involved in any military activities, no combat flights were flying over its airspace, and no refueling was taking place on its territory.
According to Neynski, the note had not been made public earlier to avoid raising public concern, especially during an election campaign where national security issues are very sensitive.
