Azerbaijani Armed Forces' Gunfire Aims to Terrorize Civilian Population: Ombudsman

The Human Rights Defender, Anahit Manasyan, has issued a statement regarding human rights violations as a result of the actions of Azerbaijani armed forces near Sotk.

“Today, on May 11, early in the morning, Azerbaijani armed forces initiated aggressive actions near the settlement of Sotk in the Gegharkunik region, opening fire towards Armenian positions with weapons of various calibers. The use of mortar and artillery systems by Azerbaijani armed forces near Sotk disrupts the rights of the civilian population to life and health, as well as other fundamental rights. The Human Rights Defender continues to receive reports that the gunfire is clearly audible in the village, causing residents to be terrified, placed in uncertainty, and in a state of stress. Since morning, operations at the Sotk gold mine have completely ceased due to safety concerns for workers.

There is also serious concern regarding the reported targeting of an ambulance transporting an injured soldier, especially given that the vehicle was marked and equipped according to regulations. It should be noted that targeting ambulances is prohibited under international humanitarian law. The office of the Defender is in constant communication with hospital management and healthcare workers regarding the health of injured soldiers. Issues related to the health status of the servicemen will continue to remain under the special attention of the Defender.

The Human Rights Defender emphasizes once again that the gunfire from Azerbaijani armed forces in immediate proximity to Armenian villages, including the use of large-caliber weapons, also aims to terrorize the civilian population, keeping them in a constant state of stress and anxiety. These actions grossly violate the principles of international law and pose a genuine threat to the right to life and safety of the civilian population, as well as other fundamental rights,” reads the statement.