Azerbaijan Denies Nagorno-Karabakh Ethnic Cleansing Claims: 'Cannot Accept...'

 

Azerbaijan has categorically denied claims of ethnic cleansing in Nagorno-Karabakh, emphasizing its commitment to the peaceful resolution of the long-standing conflict. As tensions continue to simmer in the region, it is essential to examine the Azerbaijani perspective on these allegations.

The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, which has persisted for decades, centers around the disputed territory of Nagorno-Karabakh, an ethnically Armenian region located within Azerbaijan's borders. This region has been a source of contention between Armenia and Azerbaijan, leading to a full-scale war in the early 1990s. The conflict was marked by ethnic violence and mass displacement, resulting in a fragile ceasefire in 1994.

Recent reports have alleged that Azerbaijan engaged in ethnic cleansing in areas reclaimed during the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh war. These allegations have drawn international attention and raised concerns about human rights violations. The accusations have centered on the displacement of Armenian civilians and claims of cultural heritage destruction in the conflict zone.

Azerbaijan vehemently denies these allegations, asserting that its actions were aimed at reclaiming territories that had been under Armenian control since the 1990s. Officials have stressed that their military operations targeted military infrastructure and combatants, not civilians. They also argue that the return of displaced Azerbaijani citizens to their homes in these territories is a matter of justice and international law.

The Azerbaijani government has welcomed international organizations and independent observers to investigate the situation and verify the claims independently. They assert that the presence of international observers will help establish the facts and clear any misconceptions.

While the allegations of ethnic cleansing are deeply troubling, it is crucial for the international community to engage in impartial investigations to ascertain the facts on the ground. A peaceful resolution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict remains the ultimate goal, and both Armenia and Azerbaijan should commit to diplomatic efforts to achieve lasting stability in the region.

The denial by Azerbaijan of allegations of ethnic cleansing in Nagorno-Karabakh underscores the complexity of the conflict and the need for a thorough, impartial investigation. Achieving a peaceful resolution that respects the rights and security of all affected parties remains the ultimate objective. The international community must play a constructive role in facilitating dialogue and reconciliation to bring lasting peace to the region.