Armenians Continue to Depart From Karabağ Despite Security Assurances

Armenians Continue to Depart From Karabağ Despite Security Assurances

The Exodus Continues

Following the recent military operations in Karabağ by Azerbaijan, a significant number of Armenians continue to leave the region. Despite the Baku administration’s assurances of guaranteed rights and security for the Armenians in Karabağ, hundreds have already departed, and many more are awaiting evacuation.

Numbers on the Rise

According to sources within the Armenian government, as of 13:00 local time, at least 6,650 people have migrated from the mountainous region of Karabakh in Azerbaijan to Armenia. This number marks a significant increase from the 4,850 individuals reported just five hours earlier. The rapid increase indicates a fluid situation, with the number of people crossing into Armenia from Karabağ escalating within a matter of hours.

(Read Also: Escalating Crisis in Karabakh: The Rising Tide of Refugees)

The Unresolved Dispute

The region of Nagorno-Karabakh has been a hotbed of dispute between Armenia and Azerbaijan for years. The area is internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan but is largely populated by ethnic Armenians. Despite numerous ceasefires and peace attempts, the conflict remains unresolved. This recent exodus of Armenians from Karabağ is a testament to the ongoing tension and uncertainty in the region.

The Ceasefire Agreement

In a recent turn of events, Armenian separatist forces in Azerbaijan’s breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh agreed to a ceasefire after Baku began an offensive to restore full control of its territory. Under the agreement, separatist forces are to disband and disarm, with discussions on the future of the region and its ethnic Armenian inhabitants set to commence. Yet, despite these developments, the fear and uncertainty among the Armenian population seem to persist, leading to the ongoing exodus.

(Read Also: Azerbaijan Declares Full Restoration of Sovereignty: Unpacking the Geopolitical Implications)

The Role of International Entities

Amid the escalating conflict, numerous countries and the United Nations have strongly condemned the fighting and called on both sides to de-escalate tensions and resume meaningful negotiations. Russian peacekeepers have also been deployed in the region, facilitating evacuations and maintaining a semblance of peace. However, their presence and the international calls for peace have done little to stem the tide of departing Armenians.

Looking Ahead

The situation in Karabağ continues to evolve rapidly. While the Baku administration maintains that the rights and security of Armenians in the region are guaranteed, the increasing number of people choosing to leave the area tells a different story. As the international community watches on, the fate of the Armenians in Karabağ hangs in the balance.

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