Ceasefire Declared in Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict: A Fragile Peace Emerges

 

** Ceasefire Declared in Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict: A Fragile Peace Emerges**


In a sudden and significant development, the ethnic Armenian leadership in the disputed territory of Nagorno-Karabakh has announced a ceasefire just hours after Azerbaijan launched a military offensive. The ceasefire agreement, brokered by Russian peacekeepers stationed in the region, comprises three key points.


Firstly, the leadership of Nagorno-Karabakh has committed to complete disarmament. Secondly, they have agreed to withdraw any remaining military units and equipment belonging to the Armenian armed forces, despite previous denials from the Republic of Armenia regarding its military presence in the region. Finally, representatives from Azerbaijan and the ethnic Armenian leadership will meet in the Azerbaijani town of Yevlach to discuss the future of Nagorno-Karabakh, with a focus on the safety and security of the local Armenian population and the process of their reintegration into Azerbaijan.


This ceasefire announcement follows Azerbaijan's military offensive to regain full control of Nagorno-Karabakh, a region at the center of one of the world's longest-running conflicts. Although internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan, large portions of Nagorno-Karabakh have been under the control of ethnic Armenians for three decades.


The roots of this conflict trace back to the late 1980s and early 1990s when Azerbaijan and Armenia fought a brutal war over the territory. Russia, which previously oversaw both countries as part of the USSR, has periodically deployed peacekeepers to the region to mitigate tensions. However, recent events, including Azerbaijan's blockade of a vital route into Nagorno-Karabakh in December 2022, have raised concerns of renewed violence.


While Azerbaijani media and officials have framed the ceasefire as a full surrender by Karabakh Armenians, it is crucial to consider the broader context. Azerbaijan possesses significant military superiority over the breakaway region, leading to the inevitable military imbalance. The role of Russia in mediating this ceasefire is essential, even though the Republic of Armenia was not directly involved in the negotiations.


The significance of this ceasefire lies in the prevention of further casualties among the civilian population. However, the path forward remains fraught with challenges. Reintegration efforts will be complex and protracted, as decades of conflict and enmity must be addressed.


This development offers a glimmer of hope for a peaceful resolution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, although the road ahead is fraught with uncertainty and obstacles. As the situation evolves, the international community will closely monitor progress towards lasting peace in a region marred by decades of conflict and tension.


*By Ameer Hamza*

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