Baku: The Azerbaijani Army initiated a counter-offensive known as the “Iron Fist” operation on September 27, 2020, in response to provocations by the Armenian armed forces along the frontline. This military action, which lasted 44 days, concluded with the restoration of Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity, ending nearly three decades of Armenian occupation in the region.
According to Trend News Agency, the conflict saw Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Russian President Vladimir Putin engage in phone discussions amid the ongoing hostilities. Throughout the operation, the Armenian armed forces experienced significant setbacks, including forced retreats and substantial losses in military equipment. Reports indicated numerous instances of ceasefire violations by Armenian forces on the state border.
The Azerbaijani Army demonstrated considerable superiority over the Armenian forces, successfully destroying various UAVs and military equipment. Notably, the Armenian side used a Smerch multiple launch rocket s
ystem to attack Azerbaijan’s Fuzuli district, while reconnaissance and sabotage units faced annihilation in the Zangilan district. Video evidence was released showing the destruction of Armenian ammunition depots near Khankandi city and tanks in battles around Khojavand district.
Further reports highlighted the Armenian forces targeting Azerbaijan’s Aghdam and Aghjabadi districts. Amid these developments, the Armenian head of regiment reportedly fled, leaving servicemen unaccounted for. The conflict claimed the lives of key Armenian military leaders, including the commander of the tank battalion and the motorized infantry regiment.
The Azerbaijani forces also neutralized a phosphorus shell fired by Armenia at the Tartar district and disseminated footage of the destruction of Armenian artillery in the Khojavand district direction. The culmination of these strategic military maneuvers significantly shifted the balance of power in the region, leading to the resolution of the conflict favorably for Azerbaijan.