Azerbaijan calls for global support as landmine threat continues to claim lives

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan has issued a stern warning about the ongoing danger posed by landmines in the country, which are believed to have been deliberately planted by Armenia. 

The warning comes after another tragic incident, where a civilian fell victim to a landmine explosion in the Aghdam region earlier on April 2, Caliber.Az reports.

"Landmines, deliberately and indiscriminately planted by Armenia, continue to endanger the safety and well-being of Azerbaijan's civilians," the ministry said in a post on the social media platform X, highlighting the continued threat in the aftermath of the 2020 war.

Since the conclusion of the conflict, the number of victims has steadily risen. "Since the end of the 2020 war, a total of 387 Azerbaijanis have been killed or severely injured due to landmine contamination, underscoring the ongoing human cost of these hidden dangers," the ministry added, emphasizing the need for international attention and action.

The persistent presence of landmines is not only a humanitarian crisis but also a significant barrier to long-term peace and stability in the region. "Persistent landmine contamination poses a major obstacle to peace, reconciliation, and stability in the region," Azerbaijan's Foreign Ministry stated.

In light of the growing toll on civilian lives and the continuing risk to both local populations and those involved in post-war reconstruction efforts, Azerbaijan is calling for immediate and sustained international support. "We call upon the international community to provide meaningful political and practical support in addressing this critical issue," the ministry urged.

To recall, a mine explosion occurred in Chamanli village, Aghdam district, Azerbaijan, on April 2, injuring 57-year-old Nuraddin Abbasov while he was herding livestock in an uncleared area. The blast, caused by an anti-personnel mine, severely injured his leg. He was promptly evacuated to a hospital for treatment. Authorities, led by the Aghdam District Prosecutor’s Office, are investigating the incident.

By Aghakazim Guliyev