The conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh has led to a dire humanitarian crisis, with nearly 30,000 ethnic Armenians fleeing the region. This constitutes a quarter of the enclave’s population, which was recently seized by Azerbaijan. Nagorno-Karabakh conflict
The situation has resulted in a significant exodus, with hundreds of cars forming long lines on the road leading into Armenia, the destination for many of those leaving.
Azerbaijan has stated that residents in the newly captured areas will be safe, but Armenia’s prime minister has raised concerns of “ethnic cleansing” beginning.
Nagorno-Karabakh, a region recognized as part of Azerbaijan, had been under the control of ethnic Armenians for three decades, with support from Armenia and Russia.
The recent conflict has resulted in casualties on both sides, with hundreds of ethnic Armenians and Azerbaijani soldiers losing their lives. As part of a ceasefire agreement, separatists have agreed to surrender their weapons.
While Azerbaijan has expressed its intention to treat ethnic Armenians as “equal citizens,” the flow of aid remains limited, prompting many residents to flee. Nagorno-Karabakh conflict
A tragic incident occurred on Monday when a massive fuel explosion killed at least 68 people attempting to leave the region, with many more injured or missing.
As ethnic Armenians crossed the border into Armenia, they faced rigorous checks by Azerbaijani border control, with authorities claiming to be searching for “war crimes” suspects. The Azerbaijani government has also expressed its intent to grant amnesty to Armenian fighters who surrender but insists on apprehending those responsible for war crimes during the conflict.
In the main town square, displaced people gather, their future uncertain. Volunteers provide basic necessities like food and blankets. Evacuees are registered, and occasional buses transport them to other towns or villages, but many seem to lack a concrete plan beyond reaching this point.
On Tuesday, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev to ensure “unconditional protection and freedom of movement for civilians” and called for “unhindered humanitarian access to Nagorno-Karabakh.” UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also called for both sides to respect human rights.
Leaders of the ethnic Armenian community report that thousands of people lack access to food and shelter, with many forced to seek refuge in basements, school buildings, or out in the open.
In response to the dire situation, the Armenian health ministry is mobilizing helicopters to evacuate patients from overwhelmed hospitals in the region, while Azerbaijan has stated that it has dispatched medical supplies. The humanitarian aspect of the conflict remains a pressing concern, and international efforts needed to ensure the well-being and safety of those affected.