Official: Mine threat remains one of Azerbaijan’s most pressing challenges

The threat posed by landmines remains one of the most acute challenges facing Azerbaijan, particularly in the territories liberated from occupation, a senior official has said.

Speaking at an event focused on awareness-raising efforts to combat the mine threat in the Karabakh region, Heydar Rzayev, Head of Department at the International Eurasia Press Fund (IEPF), stressed the ongoing dangers and the importance of continued public education, Caliber.Az reports per local media.

“This remains a highly relevant issue in the region. According to preliminary assessments, Armenia has planted over 1.5 million mines on Azerbaijani territory, making it one of the most heavily mined areas in the world,” Rzayev said. 

"Since 2020, there have been 399 recorded mine incidents. The number of casualties continues to rise annually, underlining the persistent and systemic nature of the threat.”

He highlighted the importance of public awareness campaigns in mitigating risks, noting that IEPF has been engaged in such efforts for over two decades.

“This work is of critical importance in building individual awareness about safety and appropriate behaviour in mine-contaminated areas,” he added.

Note that Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry reported that mine-related incidents in the Karabakh region have claimed or injured 399 lives since 2020.

The ministry highlighted the persistent danger posed by landmines in areas affected by the recent conflict, calling attention to the severe humanitarian consequences.

The latest incident occurred on June 30 in Aghdam, where a police officer was severely injured, resulting in the amputation of his right foot.

By Aghakazim Guliyev