BAKU: President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan addressed the nation, celebrating the liberation of Zangilan and other territories previously occupied by Armenian forces, marking a significant milestone in the second Karabakh war. The conflict, which began on September 27, 2020, with the Azerbaijani Army’s “Iron Fist” counter-offensive, concluded with Azerbaijan restoring control over its territories after nearly three decades of occupation.

According to Trend News Agency, President Aliyev expressed his satisfaction with the achievements of the Azerbaijani forces, emphasizing the strategic and symbolic importance of reclaiming Zangilan and other regions. He highlighted the bravery and professionalism of the Azerbaijani military, which resulted in the liberation of numerous villages and cities, including Fuzuli, Jabrayil, Khojavand, and Zangilan districts. The President underscored the ongoing challenges posed by Armenian forces, who continue to fire on Azerbaijani settlements, causing civilian casualties and dest
ruction.

President Aliyev conveyed his commitment to the return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their native lands, assuring that the Azerbaijani government would facilitate their resettlement and rebuild the cultural heritage that was destroyed during the occupation. He criticized the Armenian leadership for their attempts to alter the historical and cultural landscape of the occupied territories, asserting that these efforts had failed to undermine the Azerbaijani people’s resolve.

The President also addressed the international community’s role in the conflict, noting the lack of effective enforcement of United Nations Security Council resolutions over the past 30 years. He called for greater international accountability and criticized Armenia’s attempts to deceive mediators and the global community regarding its intentions. Aliyev reiterated Azerbaijan’s commitment to territorial integrity and the principles of international law, emphasizing the legitimacy of Azerbaijan’s actions on its recogni
zed territories.

President Aliyev concluded his address by listing the military achievements of Azerbaijani forces, including the destruction and capture of significant Armenian military assets. He announced the liberation of several key settlements and stressed the importance of continued military operations until Armenia fully withdraws from occupied territories. The President declared, “Karabakh is ours!” and expressed confidence in Azerbaijan’s eventual victory and restoration of peace and stability in the region.