Azerbaijani Forces Open Fire on Civilian During Agricultural Work in Artsakh

Armed forces from Azerbaijan targeted and fired upon a civilian engaged in agricultural work in Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) on June 25. According to a report from the Artsakh Ministry of Internal Affairs Police, the incident occurred around 4:00 PM when Mikayel Mezhlumyan, a 22-year-old resident of the village of Murishen in the Martuni region, was working in a field on the left side of the highway from Murishen to Avdur.

Mezhlumyan was subjected to gunfire from various firearms originating from the adjacent Azerbaijani combat positions, with bullets directed towards him. The attack forced the young man to cease his agricultural work and raised concerns over the safety and security of civilians in the region.

The incident was promptly reported to the Russian peacekeeping troops stationed in the area, who play a crucial role in maintaining peace and stability in the aftermath of the 2020 Artsakh war.

Targeting civilians is a violation of international humanitarian law and raises serious concerns about the safety and well-being of people living in conflict-affected regions. The attack highlights the ongoing volatility and tensions in the area, underscoring the importance of upholding the ceasefire agreement and ensuring the protection of civilians.

The recent escalation also serves as a reminder of the complexities in the region and the need for continued efforts to promote peace and dialogue between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

The incident involving Mikayel Mezhlumyan underscores the urgent need for measures that prioritize the safety and protection of civilians, regardless of their nationality, and emphasizes the importance of finding peaceful and diplomatic resolutions to disputes in the region.