Casualties Reported in Artsakh Amid Civilian Attacks

The Office of the Human Rights Defender of the Republic of Artsakh has commenced a fact-finding mission regarding the consequences of the large-scale assault initiated by Azerbaijani armed forces on September 27.

According to updated information, Azerbaijan has shelled and struck all major and numerous small settlements, including Stepanakert, Askeran, Martakert, Martuni, Hadrut, and the city of Shushi.

Preliminary reports confirm that there are 2 fatalities and dozens of injuries among the civilian population, with more than 10 wounded in Stepanakert alone, including children and women. Representatives of the Defender have visited a group of injured individuals recovering at the Republican Medical Center in Stepanakert.

In addition to numerous infrastructural damages, some schools have also been affected. The analysis of collected data indicates that Azerbaijani armed forces have targeted civilians in a deliberate and pinpoint manner, which constitutes a gross violation of international humanitarian law.

The Defender calls on the international community to appropriately assess the actions of Azerbaijan, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, and to take measures to neutralize the threats endangering the lives and safety of thousands of residents of the Republic of Artsakh.

The Office of the Human Rights Defender continues its fact-finding activities and will issue additional publications following the clarification of data.