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BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 25. Today marks 32 years since the tragic events of the Khojaly genocide, where Armenian forces committed atrocities against Azerbaijani civilians during the occupation of Azerbaijani territories, as stated by the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry, reports Trend.
Armenia’s brutal policy of ethnic cleansing and genocide targeted Azerbaijani settlements such as Baganis Ayrim, Jamilli, Karkijahan, Meshali, Malibeyli, Gushchular, Garadagli, among others. One of the most horrific incidents occurred in Khojaly.
On the night of February 25-26, 1992, Armenia’s armed forces, aided by the former USSR’s 366th Motorized Rifle Regiment, captured Khojaly after a prolonged siege and intense shelling. The occupation resulted in the brutal murder of 613 people, including 63 children, 106 women, and 70 elderly individuals. Families were wiped out, children were orphaned, and many were taken hostage and tortured.
The use of heavy weaponry against innocent civilians in Khojaly, along with witness testimonies and confessions from Armenian officials, leaves no doubt that the massacre was a deliberate act of genocide planned and executed by Armenia.
The Khojaly genocide, like other crimes committed by Armenia against Azerbaijanis, violates international laws and conventions on genocide, torture, and human rights. The world community must support efforts to hold perpetrators of such crimes accountable.
This year, on the 32nd anniversary of the Khojaly genocide, Azerbaijan proudly flies its flag over all its territories, including Khojaly, as a symbol of strength and remembrance for the victims. Liberation of Khojaly signifies unity and a commitment to justice for those affected by the tragedy.
Azerbaijan continues to work towards ending impunity for crimes committed during Armenia’s aggression, believing that justice is essential for healing the wounds of the past. On this solemn anniversary, we honor the memories of the innocent victims and vow to never forget the atrocities of the Khojaly genocide.
