No Threat to Bulgaria From Iran, Analyst Says Amid Diplomatic Note Row

Journalist Hristo Rimpopov told Bulgarian National Radio that there is no basis to assume Bulgaria could become a target of Iranian attacks, following confirmation by the Foreign Ministry that Tehran had sent a diplomatic note concerning the presence of US aircraft at a Bulgarian airport.

The clarification came after Deputy Foreign Minister Marin Raykov reiterated that relations with Iran remain diplomatically stable and intact. The discussion was triggered by claims that such a note had been received but not publicly shared by the authorities.

Rimpopov argued that the situation should not be interpreted as a direct threat, noting that the communication was sent some time ago and does not indicate any immediate escalation. He also rejected suggestions that Bulgaria is viewed as a primary actor in a confrontational context from Tehran’s perspective.

The journalist also commented on domestic political debate surrounding the caretaker government’s agreement with Ukraine. He described the discussions in parliament as largely political theatre, arguing that the outgoing legislature did not impose any obligation to terminate the arrangement.

In his view, the document is closer to a political declaration than a binding international treaty, and therefore does not create strict legal commitments for Bulgaria. He added that current political disputes are being used by different parties in a pre-election context.

Rimpopov further noted that some elements within the agreement, including references to infrastructure initiatives such as the vertical gas corridor, already have broader political support, including from factions typically sceptical of the deal. He argued that even if future parliaments reject parts of it, many provisions would still be implemented without negative consequences for the country.

He also addressed criticism regarding financial assistance to Ukraine, dismissing claims that Bulgaria bears a disproportionate burden and stating that the country benefits from cooperation with NATO partners through broader support mechanisms.

Commenting on US political messaging, Rimpopov said former US President Donald Trump’s statements on the Iran-related conflict often appear inconsistent and lacking a coherent long-term strategy. He suggested that European leaders are increasingly less inclined to treat such statements as reliably guiding positions.

He added that, according to recent remarks by French President Emmanuel Macron, the United States is perceived as an inconsistent partner in certain geopolitical contexts.