Baku: The Azerbaijani Army initiated a counter-offensive operation known as “Iron Fist” on September 27, 2020, in reaction to significant provocations by the Armenian armed forces along the frontline. This strategic move marked the beginning of the 44-day second Karabakh war, which concluded with Azerbaijan regaining control over territories that had been under Armenian occupation for nearly three decades, thereby restoring its territorial integrity.

According to Trend News Agency, on the 33rd day of the conflict, President Ilham Aliyev enacted a law to rename Vang village in Khojavand district to Chinarli village. Additionally, President Aliyev engaged in a direct call with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, highlighting the ongoing diplomatic engagements amid the conflict. The Azerbaijani Defense Ministry provided updates on the frontlines, detailing the destruction of Armenian military equipment.

A video showcasing the liberated villages in the Gubadli district was disseminated, celebrating the adva
nces made by Azerbaijani forces. However, the conflict’s intensity persisted as the Goranboy and Tartar districts came under fire from retreating Armenian troops, targeting civilian populations. High-ranking Armenian officers were reportedly killed, and footage of abandoned Armenian military equipment was shared. Furthermore, two Armenian Su-25 planes were destroyed during this period.

The Tartar district, including areas with diplomatic presence, also experienced shelling, resulting in civilian casualties. In retaliatory actions, Azerbaijani forces neutralized Armenian servicemen who had previously targeted civilians in Azerbaijan’s Barda, and additional Armenian military equipment was destroyed.