Azerbaijani Forces Continue Gains in Second Karabakh War, Liberating Key Territories

BAKU: The Azerbaijani Army intensified its counter-offensive, dubbed "Iron Fist," on the 27th day of the second Karabakh war, achieving significant territorial gains against Armenian forces. The operation, which began on September 27, 2020, aims to reclaim territories under Armenian occupation for nearly three decades, marking a turning point in the conflict's trajectory. According to Trend News Agency, President Ilham Aliyev announced via his official Twitter account the liberation of multiple villages within the Zangilan, Jabrayil, and Gubadli districts, along with the city of Gubadly. The advancement of Azerbaijani troops also resulted in the liberation of parts of the Kalbajar and Gubadly districts, as revealed during an operational meeting led by President Aliyev at the Central Command Post of the Ministry of Defense. President Aliyev has engaged in diplomatic efforts, sending letters to heads of state and government who support Azerbaijan's position, coinciding with discussions at the United Nations Security Council. He also gave an interview to the US-based Fox News TV channel, furthering Azerbaijan's narrative on the international stage. On the battlefield, Azerbaijani forces inflicted substantial damage on the Armenian Armed Forces in Khojavand, Gubadly, and Lachin. Utilizing high-precision weapons, the Azerbaijani military announced the destruction of several units of Armenian military equipment, forcing Armenian troops to retreat with significant losses. In contrast, Armenian forces fired upon the Azerbaijani regions of Aghdam, Tartar, and Aghjabadi. The Azerbaijani Ministry of Defense released video footage showing the liberation of villages in the Gubadly, Jabrayil, and Zangilan districts, as well as the destruction of Armenian firing points and military equipment. These visual confirmations highlight the Azerbaijani army's continued momentum in reclaiming occupied territories.