Nagorno-Karabakh conflict: Azerbaijan takes control of disputed region

 Nagorno-Karabakh conflict: Azerbaijan takes control of disputed region

The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict has been a long-standing and deeply rooted issue in the South Caucasus region. For decades, Armenia and Azerbaijan have been locked in a bitter dispute over the status of Nagorno-Karabakh, a predominantly Armenian-populated enclave located within Azerbaijani territory. This conflict, marked by sporadic violence and failed negotiations, took a significant turn in the fall of 2020 when Azerbaijan took control of the disputed region, reshaping the geopolitical landscape of the region. In this article, we'll explore the historical context, the events leading up to Azerbaijan's reassertion of control, and the implications of this development.

A Brief Historical Background

The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict can be traced back to the early 20th century, but its roots are deeply entwined with the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991. Following the Soviet Union's collapse, Armenia and Azerbaijan both claimed Nagorno-Karabakh, sparking a full-scale war that resulted in significant casualties and displacement of people on both sides. In 1994, a ceasefire was brokered by the OSCE Minsk Group, comprising Russia, France, and the United States.

The ceasefire, while putting an end to the bloodshed, did not resolve the core issue of Nagorno-Karabakh's status. The region remained in a state of de facto independence, governed by ethnic Armenians but internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan.

Escalation and the 2020 War

Tensions had been simmering for years, with sporadic clashes and skirmishes along the Line of Contact that separates Azerbaijani and Armenian forces. However, the situation escalated dramatically in September 2020, leading to a full-scale war.

Azerbaijan accused Armenia of launching an offensive, while Armenia argued that it was acting in self-defense. The conflict, which lasted for 44 days, resulted in thousands of casualties and significant destruction in the region. It also involved the use of modern weaponry and drones, signaling a shift in the dynamics of the conflict.

Azerbaijan's Victory

The 2020 war took a different turn compared to previous clashes. Azerbaijani forces, supported by Turkey, made significant territorial gains, recapturing several districts surrounding Nagorno-Karabakh. These victories were seen as a turning point in the conflict and paved the way for a ceasefire agreement brokered by Russia on November 10, 2020.

Under the ceasefire agreement, Azerbaijan retained control over the territories it had recaptured during the war, while Armenia agreed to withdraw its forces from these areas and allow Russian peacekeepers to deploy to Nagorno-Karabakh.

Implications of Azerbaijan's Control

Redrawing Borders: Azerbaijan's control over the surrounding districts of Nagorno-Karabakh effectively redraws the map of the region. This development has significantly altered the balance of power in the South Caucasus, consolidating Azerbaijani control over the majority of Nagorno-Karabakh.

Refugees and Displacement: The conflict resulted in the displacement of thousands of people, both internally and across borders. Many Armenians fled from the newly regained Azerbaijani territories, while Azerbaijanis who had been displaced during the 1990s conflict with Armenia began to return to their homes.

Humanitarian Concerns: The war had severe humanitarian consequences, including casualties, the destruction of infrastructure, and the need for humanitarian assistance. Rebuilding and addressing these issues remain significant challenges.

Geopolitical Shift: The involvement of Turkey in support of Azerbaijan and Russia as a mediator underscored the shifting geopolitical dynamics in the region. This has implications for regional stability and international relations.

Conclusion

The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict has a complex history, and Azerbaijan's retaking of the disputed region in 2020 was a significant development. It has redrawn the map of the South Caucasus, raised questions about the future of Nagorno-Karabakh, and altered the geopolitical landscape in the region. As the situation continues to evolve, it remains essential for international stakeholders to engage in diplomatic efforts to address the underlying issues and work towards a lasting and peaceful resolution to the conflict.