Baku: The open court hearing on criminal cases against several citizens of the Republic of Armenia, including prominent figures such as Arayik Harutyunyan and Arkadi Ghukasyan, continues to unfold at the Baku Military Court. These individuals stand accused of a series of severe crimes, including war crimes, genocide, and terrorism, linked to Armenia’s military actions against Azerbaijan.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the session, led by Judge Zeynal Aghayev with a panel of judges Jamal Ramazanov and Anar Rzayev, ensured that all accused were provided with interpreters and legal representation. The hearing was attended by the accused, defense attorneys, victims, their representatives, and prosecutors.

The proceedings focused on documents related to the missile attacks on Ganja city during the 44-day Patriotic War in 2020. The Armenian forces reportedly used 9K58 Smerch and 9K72 Elbrus missiles to target residential areas, violating international law and causing significant civilian casualties and property damage. The attacks resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, including minors, and injuries to 175 others.

The court examined evidence of the attacks, including forensic reports and testimonies, establishing that the missiles were launched from Vardenis, Armenia. The use of such military assets necessitates authorization from high-level state officials, pointing towards the involvement of Armenian leadership.

Accused individuals, including David Manukyan, addressed the court, denying authorization to deploy the missiles. Judge Aghayev assured that the defense would have the opportunity to comment on the documents once all evidence is presented.

The hearing also covered attacks on other regions, including Barda, resulting in further civilian casualties and infrastructure damage. Photographic evidence was presented alongside these documents.

The trial will reconvene on October 9, with 15 Armenian-origin defendants facing charges under multiple articles of Azerbaijan’s Criminal Code. These charges include waging a war of aggression, genocide, and terrorism, allegedly orchestrated by Armenian state officials and military leaders.