SHUSHA, Azerbaijan: Worry mounts for the safety and well-being of ethnic Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh as Azerbaijani forces strengthen their control over the breakaway region. The situation is precarious, and if the newly declared ceasefire holds, it could signal the possible end to a decades-long conflict between Christian and Muslim rivals in the Caucasus.
Azerbaijani forces are tightening their grip on Nagorno-Karabakh, raising concerns for the ethnic Armenian population in the region. The recent ceasefire, if it holds, has the potential to bring an end to a protracted conflict that has ebbed and flowed since the collapse of the Soviet Union, pitting Christian and Muslim Caucasus rivals against each other.
However, the years of fighting in Nagorno-Karabakh have been marred by reported abuses on both sides, and there are growing fears of a looming refugee crisis.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed deep concern for the ethnic Armenian population in Nagorno-Karabakh during a phone call with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. This underscores the international community’s unease about the situation.
At the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan called for a UN mission to monitor the treatment of ethnic Armenians in this mountainous region, highlighting the urgency of the humanitarian crisis.
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On the other hand, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov addressed the General Assembly, stating that Azerbaijan is committed to reintegrating ethnic Armenian residents of the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan as equal citizens.
A US congressional delegation visited Armenia to show support for Prime Minister Pashinyan and to assess the situation at the blockade in the region. The delegation conveyed the anxiety and fear among the local population about the unfolding events.
The conflict has not only raised concerns about the safety of civilians but also about the potential for escalating tensions in the region. It is imperative for the international community to closely monitor the situation and work towards a sustainable solution that ensures the well-being of all affected communities.
As the first Red Cross aid convoy entered the disputed enclave following Azerbaijan’s recent offensive, government forces in Nagorno-Karabakh began the process of “demilitarization.” Ethnic Armenian separatist fighters initiated the surrender of weapons as part of a Russian-mediated agreement, marking a significant development.
However, this conflict has left a trail of bitterness, as evidenced by accusations of arson and destruction of homes in the region. Villagers in some areas resorted to setting fire to their homes as Azerbaijani forces advanced, adding to the complexity of the situation.
The international community, including Russia, is closely monitoring the situation, with discussions underway to organize the withdrawal process and the return of displaced civilians. The safety and humanitarian needs of the people in Nagorno-Karabakh remain a paramount concern as efforts to restore stability and peace continue.
