Release of Prisoners, Return of Artsakh Residents, and Withdrawal of Troops: A Bill Introduced in the U.S. Congress

A bipartisan bill titled "ARMENIA Security Partnership Act" has been introduced in the U.S. Congress, initiated by the co-chairs of the Congressional Armenian Caucus, Gus Bilirakis and Frank Pallone. This was reported by the Central Office of the Armenian Cause of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation.

The purpose of the bill is to prohibit the U.S. President from circumventing the restrictions of Section 907 against Azerbaijan until Aliyev's regime carries out specific and measurable steps toward establishing stable peace with Armenia. These steps include the immediate and unconditional release of all Armenian prisoners and hostages, the complete withdrawal of Azerbaijani forces from Armenia's sovereign territory, the realization of the right of return for the residents of Artsakh, and ensuring the protection of Armenian cultural and religious heritage.

The Executive Director of the Armenian Cause in Washington, Aram Hambarsoomian, noted that the bill "terminates the policy that encourages Azerbaijan's ongoing aggression and redefines U.S. foreign policy with specific metrics and accountability for peace."

The bill also envisions a comprehensive review of U.S. security assistance for Armenia, strengthening the country's defense and deterrent capabilities if Azerbaijan does not meet the specified conditions. Co-authors of the "ARMENIA Security Partnership Act" also include Congressman Brad Sherman, David Valadao, Chris Smith, Gabe Amo, and others. The bill is expected to receive broad bipartisan support in the coming weeks.

This bill is being introduced amid efforts to restore U.S. military aid to Azerbaijan, despite the complete ethnic cleansing of Artsakh, the detention of Armenian prisoners, the occupation of Armenia's sovereign territory, continuous violations of international law, and more.