Act Alliance Urges Immediate Lifting of Blockade in Artsakh & Adherence To Humanitarian Principles

The ACT Alliance, an international inter-church organization, has issued a heartfelt plea for the immediate removal of the blockade affecting the Lachin Corridor in Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh). Amidst a growing humanitarian crisis, the alliance stresses the significance of adhering to humanitarian principles to address the dire situation faced by the region's inhabitants.

Expressing deep concern over the humanitarian crisis in Artsakh, ACT Alliance underscores the impact of the blockade imposed by Azerbaijani authorities on the Lachin corridor—a vital passage connecting Artsakh with Armenia and the rest of the world. This blockade has precipitated a severe humanitarian crisis, exacerbating an already precarious situation.

Over the past seven months, the blockade has gravely affected the lives of the region's populace, particularly the most vulnerable. Approximately 120,000 ethnic Armenians, including 30,000 children, have been grappling with acute shortages of essentials such as food, medicine, and fuel. Moreover, access to crucial medical care and life-saving services has been severely hampered.

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) previously intervened, issuing a directive on February 25 that compelled Azerbaijan to ensure unrestricted movement of individuals, vehicles, and cargo along the Lachin corridor in both directions. However, ACT Alliance underscores Azerbaijan's apparent lack of compliance with ethical obligations and humanitarian principles, urging the government to prioritize ending human suffering, particularly among the most at-risk individuals.

The alliance makes a strong plea against the use of humanitarian aid blockades as a strategic tool in resolving conflicts or disputes, emphasizing the far-reaching implications of such actions. ACT Alliance calls on Azerbaijani authorities to promptly remove the blockade on the Lachin corridor, ensuring unhindered and secure passage for civilians and goods. Furthermore, the alliance implores that humanitarian access remains unimpeded, aligning with international law and the ICJ's directives.

ACT Alliance also issues a call to the broader international community, urging swift intervention to dismantle the blockade and to seek diplomatic resolutions that foster equitable peace in the region. The alliance's statement reiterates the urgency of the situation, highlighting the collective responsibility to alleviate the immense human suffering in Artsakh and to establish an environment conducive to sustainable and just solutions.