Hearings on the Protection of Artsakh's Population to Be Held in U.S. Congress

The Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission of the U.S. Congress has announced that hearings will take place on June 21 regarding the protection of the population of Nagorno-Karabakh. This was reported by 1lurer.am.

The statement notes that the risks of a resurgence of violence in the region are increasing. "The blockade of the Lachin corridor, leading to Nagorno-Karabakh, continues for the seventh month, supported by activists associated with the Azerbaijani government. Additionally, on April 23, Azerbaijan opened a military checkpoint in the corridor, which many believe contradicts the provisions of the 2020 ceasefire agreement. International efforts are being made to mitigate the risks of a new large-scale war, including by officials of the U.S. Department of State. One of the main questions is what is required for adequate protection of the rights and safety of ethnic Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh, where Azerbaijan seeks to establish control," the statement reads.

The Commission has added that during the hearings, measures necessary to properly protect the vulnerable ethnic population of Artsakh will be discussed, and recommendations regarding U.S. policy will be presented.