On September 27, Azerbaijani forces launched air and artillery attacks on Artsakh – also known as the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic – an enclave home to over 150,000 ethnic Armenians. Despite agreeing to an October 10 ceasefire, Azerbaijan resumed shelling attacks and drone strikes on Artsakh that very evening, forcing Armenians in the capital city of Stepanakert to retreat to bomb shelters and basements.
Azerbaijan’s attacks on civilians have included the bombing of one of the largest Armenian churches in the world – Holy Savior Cathedral (Ghazanchetsots) in Shushi – and shelling of a hospital in Artsakh’s northern Martuni region. Additionally, the nation of Turkey has reportedly deployed Syrian mercenary fighters to further Azerbaijan’s attacks. Turkey’s continued military aid to Azerbaijan has led to concerns of an eventual proxy war in the region.
To date, approximately 532 Armenian servicemen and 31 civilians have been killed in the conflict, which has reportedly left more than 70,000 displaced. The Red Cross has warned of an impending “humanitarian catastrophe” as the war continues to impact innocent civilians.
International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Eurasia Regional Director, Martin Schuepp, issued a statement declaring, “Civilians are dying or suffering life-changing injuries. Homes, businesses, and once-busy streets are being reduced to rubble. The elderly and babies are among those forced to spend hours in unheated basements or to leave their homes for safety.”
The ICRC is providing emergency medical care and distributing supplies to civilians, and has been tasked with overseeing the exchange of prisoners and casualties. However, the BBC reported that the ICRC would not be able to supervise that operation until the safety of its teams is guaranteed.
Dordulian Law Group has donated a significant amount of medical equipment and supplies to aid in the humanitarian crisis. After receiving a list of desperately needed medical supplies from a doctor on the front lines in Artsakh, DLG purchased a substantial bulk order and arranged for a chartered flight to deliver the equipment directly to a hospital in need. A cargo plane loaded with various medical resources, including essential machines and specific advanced technology, made its way to Armenia yesterday. The notable contribution will directly benefit Armenian civilians, servicemen, and frontline workers affected by the continuing conflict.
To make your own contribution and assist in this vital humanitarian cause, please visit the Armenia Fund or Himnadram.org donation page today.
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