Nagorno-Karabakh, a region at the heart of political tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan, recently experienced a major event with the acceptance of the passage of humanitarian aid into this territory controlled by Azerbaijan. This decision marks a first step towards de-escalating the tensions which have marked the region in recent months.
Since 2022, the Lachin Corridor, the only route directly linking Armenia to Nagorno-Karabakh, has been blocked, causing a humanitarian crisis in the region. Armenia accused Azerbaijan of being responsible for this situation, while the latter claimed that Nagorno-Karabakh could receive all the necessary aid via Azerbaijan.
However, last Sunday, Armenian separatists in Nagorno-Karabakh agreed to allow “simultaneous deliveries” of humanitarian aid through the Lachin corridor and the Aghdam road. This decision was welcomed by international mediators, notably the European Union and the United States, who had called for the reopening of these roads to allow the passage of humanitarian aid.
Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry confirmed that separatist authorities accepted humanitarian aid deliveries from September 18, according to information provided by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). This opening is a hope for Nagorno-Karabakh, which is currently suffering from shortages of medicines and food products.
This decision comes against a backdrop of persistent tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan, who have experienced two wars over Nagorno-Karabakh. Despite mediation efforts by the European Union, the United States and Russia, the two sides have yet to reach a lasting peace agreement.
Therefore, the possibility of delivering humanitarian aid to Nagorno-Karabakh is a positive sign to reduce the suffering of the local population and encourages hope for a peaceful and lasting resolution of the conflict.
In conclusion, the acceptance of the passage of humanitarian aid into Nagorno-Karabakh is a first step towards the de-escalation of tensions in the region. This marks a significant step forward in resolving the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan and offers a glimmer of hope for the future of Nagorno-Karabakh.