Breaking
For the first time, members of Congress were able to hear the victims and their stories of war crimes and atrocities committed by Azerbaijan against ethnic Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh.
In his opening remarks, Congressman Chris Smith (R-NJ), co-chairman of the Commission, noted: “Someone will say ‘it’s time to move on’; no, it’s not time to move on. Ethnic Armenians continue to have a right to live in peace and freedom.” Congressman Smith added: “The government that committed genocide just recently in 2023 is now posing as a peacemaker of 2024 (…) We need to hold them to account, and I commit that I will work very hard to get legislation passed. We’ve got to get this done on behalf of the suffering people of Armenia. We are going to introduce this ‘Azerbaijan Democracy Act,’ a bill that will put U.S. policy firmly on the side of freedom, human rights, and the rule of law in Azerbaijan.”
Gegham Stepanyan, Former Human Rights Defender of the Republic of Artsakh, delivered firsthand testimony of Azerbaijan’s crimes against humanity detailing the suffering, famine, and malnutrition during the blockade of Nagorno-Karabakh, noting, “Peace on the broken face of violated rights and thousands of people cannot be sustainable and long-lasting.”
Ms. Sharmagh Mardi, Supervising Lawyer at the Center for Truth and Justice (CFTJ), delivered powerful testimony on behalf of victims and family members. CFTJ facilitated a delegation from Armenia to Washington, D.C., to attend the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission Hearing and other public forums and meetings organized by Global ARM, Save the Persecuted Christians and Save Armenia. CFTJ has collected over 500 testimonies from victims and eyewitnesses. All the victims presented by Ms. Mardi had been interviewed by CFTJ.
Kate Watters, Co-founder and Executive Director of Crude Accountability, focused on the human rights situation leading up to COP29, noting Azerbaijan’s corruption ranking of 157 out of 180 countries on Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index, and the Aliyev regime’s crackdown on civil society activists and journalists who speak or act in opposition to the authorities, often using fabricated charges.
Andrea J. Prasow, Executive Director of Freedom Now, highlighted a statement from Azerbaijani human rights activists who feared reprisal from their own government.
Van Krikorian testified from the Armenian Assembly of America asking for several actions including having the co-chairs issue a statement on the ethnic cleansing of Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh.
In his concluding remarks, Congressman Smith said, “We need to put the pressure right now on Aliyev like never before. The ICC needs to go after these crimes. The U.S. has not yet responded to Azerbaijan’s policy of cultural erasure, which began in 1997. Shame on us! And that’s both parties, both White Houses, no matter who is in charge.”
Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA) to Hold Azerbaijan Accountable for Nagorno- Karabakh Ethnic Cleansing
Schiff Introduces Legislation to Seize Azerbaijani Assets for Ethnic Cleansing of Nagorno- Karabakh”. U.S. Congressman and California Senate candidate Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) led the introduction of the Artsakh Revenue Recovery Act of 2024, a critical piece of legislation aimed at holding the government of Azerbaijan accountable for its unprovoked military aggression against the Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) and providing compensation to Armenians forcibly displaced.
Schiff’s Artsakh Revenue Recovery Act of 2024 was introduced on the first anniversary of Azerbaijan’s coordinated military attack against that ethnically cleansed Nagorno- Karabakh of Armenians. Today, for the first time in history, Nagorno-Karabakh stands devoid of Armenians, and parts of Armenia remain occupied by the Azerbaijani military forces. Global ARM worked closely with Congressman Schiff on the development of the legislation.
Global ARM President Timothy Jemal Highlights Strengthening U.S.-Armenia Relations at Capitol Hill ‘Save Armenia’ Conference
Global ARM President Timothy Jemal addresses the growing strength of the U.S.-Armenia relations during a “Save Armenia” conference on Capitol Hill. The conference also addressed accountability for Azerbaijan’s aggression, the need for the immediate and unconditional release of
Armenian hostages held by the Aliyev regime, the right of return for Nagorno-Karabakh Armenians and the need for Azerbaijan to withdraw it’s occupying forces from sovereign Armenian territory.
USAID
Deputy USAID Administrator Isobel Coleman at the Armenian Embassy’s Independence Day Commemoration
Deputy USAID Administrator Isobel Coleman delivered remarks at the Armenian Embassy’s Independence Day commemoration on September 16, 2024, in Washington, D.C. She highlighted the United States’ commitment to supporting Armenia’s progress in democratic reforms, economic growth, and digital security.
“It was nearly one year ago when the Government of Azerbaijan attacked and seized control of Nagorno Karabakh, causing more than 100,000 ethnic Armenians to flee their homes,” Deputy Administrator Isobel Coleman stated.
Azerbaijan’s Ethnic Cleansing in Nagorno-Karabakh and Genocidal Policy
Christian Solidarity International Releases Statement on the First Anniversary of Ethnic Cleansing of Nagorno-Karabakh
One year ago today, the dictatorship of Azerbaijan launched an armed attack on the entire territory of Nagorno-Karabakh. Azerbaijan’s attack, combined with the blockade that preceded it, was designed to empty Nagorno-Karabakh of its ancient population of Armenian Christians, and it succeeded. Rarely in modern history has an act of ethnic or religious cleansing been so complete.
Judge Gassia Apkarian Discusses Legal Obstacles and Accountability for Armenian Victims
California Judge Gassia Apkarian, an adviser to the Center for Truth and Justice (CFTJ), delves into the complex legal challenges facing Armenia and Karabakh Armenians. She addresses the critical issue of prosecuting Azerbaijani war crimes, mentioning CFTJ’s recent communication to the ICC:
“It includes the atrocities from the 2020 war, the torture of the POWs, the arrest of the hostages, the blockade, the starvation, the bombing, and the ultimate forced deportations, because that is the pattern that Azerbaijan is following in Armenia. They are in Armenia with their military forces, and the villages where they are, around them, they have them at gunpoint. They have burned the fields, they keep the farmers from using the water, they kill their cattle, children cannot go to school. It’s the same thing that they have done in Artsakh.”
Rep. Adam Schiff Condemns Azerbaijan’s Unprovoked Assaults on Armenian Villages and Sovereign Territory
“Two years ago, Azerbaijani forces launched deadly, unprovoked attacks on the Armenian people – shelling homes in the villages of Karmir Shuka and Taghavard in Artsakh. They then attacked Armenia’s sovereign territory, including the Gegharkunik, Syunik and Vayots Dzor provinces,” said Rep. Adam Schiff.
“The United States can and must stand against Azerbaijan’s unprovoked aggression. That means cutting off aid and sanctioning Azeri officials responsible for these abuses. We must support Armenia, our democratic partner — its sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Rep. Adam Schiff added.
The Legal Case for Genocide in Karabakh
Luis Moreno Ocampo, the first prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), examines the ongoing persecution of Armenians. Ocampo emphasizes the gravity of the situation, stating:
“Today, there are 23 victims in Baku prisons. Azerbaijan took the leaders of Nagorno- Karabakh and put them in jail, targeting the heads of the community. This is exactly the method used in 1915 by the Turks—they killed the leaders first. That’s why keeping them in jail constitutes genocide. They are in jail because Azerbaijan wants to send a message to the Nagorno-Karabakh people: if you come back, you will be prosecuted or killed.”
EU Demands Azerbaijan Reengage in Anti-Torture Efforts, Condemns Ongoing Non-Cooperation
The EU expressed regret over “the persistent lack of cooperation by the Azerbaijani authorities with the prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment” and called on Azerbaijan “to resume a constructive dialogue with the Committee” during the 1506th Meeting of the Committee of Ministers on September 11, 2024.
Forming ICC Prosecutor Ocampo: Nagorno-Karabakh Armenians Have Right to Return, Urges Clear Implementation Plan
“We need to discuss how to plan the return of Armenians, how Azerbaijan will recognize the rights of the Nagorno-Karabakh population, and how these rights will be implemented. A detailed work program, developed by the people of Artsakh, is essential,” Ocampo stated.
Driven by Fear from Nagorno-Karabakh
A Mother’s Enduring Grief: The Story of Roman Telyan
“I didn’t recognize him… I stayed by his side all night. He asked for water, I gave it to him… Roman told me, ‘Mom, take me to another hospital.’ He had the impression that he was not being well looked after… I always take Sneakers to his grave, leave it there…”
This heart-wrenching account from Maria Markosyan, the mother of 19-year-old Roman Telyan, reflects the devastating losses faced by families in Nagorno-Karabakh. Despite his burns, Roman fought to stay, ultimately passing away on October 3, leaving behind a legacy of sacrifice and a mother’s endless sorrow.
Photos of the week
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
Photo Courtesy of Republic Press (Twitter Account).
Day One of the Third Annual CFTJ Conference on the Aftermath of War. Attendees are engaged in meaningful discussions on key topics such as Legal Pursuits from the Armenian Perspective, the ICC State Party’s Responsibilities, and improving victims’ representation in international criminal justice. The iconic Matenadaran, the world’s largest repository of Armenian manuscripts, adds a profound sense of history and cultural significance to the event.
Photo Courtesy of the CFTJ.
Ambassador Kristina A. Kvien visits Armenian-American artist Tigran Tsitoghdzyan’s Yerevan studio. Surrounded by Tigran’s vibrant artwork, the visit underscores the inspiring Armenia-U.S. cultural collaboration.
Photo Courtesy of US Embassy to Armenia.
Security
Russia Tried to Stage Coup in Armenia, Prosecutors Allege
A traditional Moscow ally, Armenia has pivoted to the West since the Ukraine war began, and its PM now says it could seek EU membership.
Mirzoyan and US Deputy Secretary of State Huck Discuss Regulation of Armenian-Azerbaijani Relations
Chargé d’Affaires David Allen Highlights U.S.-Armenia Partnership and Commitment to Democratic Values
Chargé d’Affaires David Allen engaged with Armenian alumni of the George C. Marshall Center, underscoring the importance of promoting democratic values and our transatlantic partnership.
He highlighted the enduring U.S. commitment to peace and prosperity in the region, bolstered by the U.S.-Armenia relationship which grows stronger every day.
EUMA Mission Head: People Remain Afraid of War
In the interview, Head of Mission Markus Ritter discusses EUMA’s impactful work in Armenia. Ritter provides insights into the mission’s goals and ongoing efforts to stabilize and support the region.
“I think we have a quite good picture of what is going on. The people tell us that they are still afraid of a war(..)but with us being visible to all the people, we bring some stability and some hope to them(..)Our primary goal is border stabilization, and we are achieving success,” Ritter stated.
Cyber Experts of US Marine Corps and Cyber Defense Unit of Armenia’s Defense Ministry Exchanged Experience
From September 2 to 13, U.S. Marine cyber specialists collaborated with the Armenian Ministry of Defense’s Cyber Defense Unit in a Defensive Cyber Operations Exchange. The discussions focused on network security, cyber hygiene, and proactive strategies to counter emerging threats, according to the U.S. Embassy in Armenia.
Opinion
Azerbaijan Accused of Hypocrisy after Calling for Cop29 Global Truce
By Fiona Harvey
The host country of this year’s UN climate summit, Azerbaijan, has been accused of hypocrisy in calling for a global truce to coincide with the conference taking place.
The 2022 Azerbaijani Incursion Into Armenia: Events and Aftermath
By Hovhannes Nazaretyan
Two years have passed since the large-scale Azerbaijani incursion into Armenia on September 13 and 14, 2022. It was a pivotal moment in independent Armenia’s history as it marked the most significant attack on sovereign Armenian territory.
Is COP29 Berlin 1936?
By Michael Rubin
Next month, dozens of heads of state, hundreds of diplomats, and thousands of activists will gather in Baku, Azerbaijan for the 29th annual UN climate change conference(..)Keeping Azerbaijan happy, the White House and State Department logic went, might encourage Aliyev to be flexible in peace talks.
A Day of Fast Cars and Genocidal Maniacs in Azerbaijan
By Dominic Lawson
The Country’s Grand Prix is Being Held within Earshot of Armenian Hostages
Should you be one of those watching the fuel-fest known as the Formula 1 grand prix taking place in Baku today, consider this: within half a mile of the drivers hurtling around the streets of Azerbaijan’s capital is the state security service headquarters. And languishing in its cells are — among many other political prisoners — several who were ministers of the former Armenian government of Nagorno-Karabakh, now unlawfully held hostage after being captured last year when Azerbaijan invaded the disputed territory.
Azerbaijan Asks for Climate ‘Truce’ Ahead of COP29
By Sara Schonhardt
The host of the climate talks is urging nations to just get along. Some say it’s trying to downplay its record on the environment and human rights.
‘Crushed and Downtrodden’: Azerbaijan’s COP29 Crackdown
Azerbaijani rights defender and climate advocate Anar Mammadli was picking up his son from kindergarten when police arrested him in front of the children.
