In a concerning escalation in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, a massive 42,500 ethnic Armenians, which is over a third of the enclave’s population, have fled the region following its recent capture by Azerbaijan. The scenes at the Armenia-Azerbaijani border are grim, with hundreds of cars backed up, indicating a mass exodus towards Armenia.
Despite Azerbaijan’s assurance of safety for the residents, Armenia’s prime minister has raised alarms of “ethnic cleansing.” Historically, Nagorno-Karabakh, though recognized as part of Azerbaijan, has been under the administrative control of ethnic Armenians, backed by Armenia and Russia. The recent conflict has seen casualties, with at least 200 ethnic Armenians and several Azerbaijani soldiers killed.
Tragedy struck on Monday when a significant fuel explosion resulted in the death of 68 people, with nearly 300 injured and 105 missing. This explosion occurred near the city of Khankendi (Stepanakert to Armenians), with many victims in the process of refueling their vehicles.
The situation at the border is tense. Thousands of Armenians undergoing rigorous checks by Azerbaijani border control have heightened anxieties. Azerbaijan asserts they are on the lookout for “war crimes” suspects.
Meanwhile, the town of Goris in Armenia has become a temporary refuge. Crowded streets, filled cars, and distressed families tell a tale of urgency and fear. Residents carry whatever remnants of their lives they can, with many believing they might never return.
International attention is focused on the situation, with the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, urging Azerbaijan to ensure “unconditional protections and freedom of movement for civilians”. The UN’s Antonio Guterres has echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing human rights.
Aid efforts have been sluggish, with only one delivery, a mere 70 tonnes of food, reaching the affected since the conflict’s ceasefire. As tensions remain high, the world watches closely, hoping for a peaceful resolution.
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