We Cannot Remain Indifferent While a Real Disaster Unfolds Before Our Eyes: Pallone on the Blockade of the Lachin Corridor

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev continues to lie before the international community regarding the ongoing blockade of the Lachin Corridor, which has lasted for over a month. This was stated by U.S. Congressman Frank Pallone on his Twitter page, reacting to recent comments made by the Azerbaijani leader in an interview with media.

“There is clear evidence that this is creating a humanitarian crisis in Artsakh, blocking crucial supplies of food and medicine for civilians. It is concerning that Aliyev only welcomes 'free speech' when it is used to threaten the lives of Armenians,” Pallone remarked.

He emphasized that he has been working with his colleagues on the Congressional Armenian Issues Caucus to urge the U.S. State Department and global leaders to take serious steps to end this man-made disaster. “In the coming days, 120,000 innocent lives could be at risk. We cannot remain indifferent while a real disaster unfolds before our eyes. I will do everything within our power to ensure that the U.S. uses every possible diplomatic tool to end this brutal blockade,” Pallone stated.

Since December 12, 2022, Azerbaijan has been keeping the Lachin Corridor, the only route connecting Artsakh to Armenia and the outside world, closed. Due to the blockade, 1,100 people, including 270 children, have been unable to return to Artsakh from Armenia. The blockade has severed supply chains for essential goods, including food and medicine, causing a dire need for food, medications, and other critical necessities in Artsakh. Not only is the right to free movement obstructed, but hundreds of children have also been deprived of their right to education.