What is Happening in Azerbaijan According to Tigran Abrahamyan

Leader of the "Henaket" analytical center, Tigran Abrahamyan writes: "The gatherings of reservists in Azerbaijan are widely reported with great fanfare and detail. The authorities are significantly contributing to the presentation of the topic from various perspectives. Moreover, not only is attention being paid to the actual events, but also to the gatherings in front of the reservist recruitment offices, the boarding of buses, and videos and photos related to patriotic songs and enthusiasm are being published on social media from within.

Videos are even circulating on social media showing how vehicles designated for recruitment and military purposes during the state of emergency are stopped on highways. The situation created and the objectives of the Azerbaijani authorities can be grouped into several directions.

Firstly, Azerbaijan is preparing for war, and the ongoing events that are being reported should fit within that logic. Secondly, the gatherings of reservists are planned by the chief staff of the armed forces of Azerbaijan and occur every year, but they are getting more extensive coverage during the current post-war phase.

Thirdly, the authorities are trying to counteract the negative impact of President Aliyev's statement made two months ago, where he noted that the country is at war, yet very few are eager to go to the front lines. Fourthly, this is part of the recent hardening of statements, aimed at raising the combat spirit of the public, testing public sentiments, and, perhaps, preparing for military actions in information terms over a certain timeframe. Lastly, this has an internal political component, primarily aimed at calming tensions within the country, unifying the nation around the ideas of possible military actions, patriotic slogans, and unity."