Post by fahimaislam on Nov 18, 2024 6:03:20 GMT 2
Since the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, Azerbaijan has faced Azerbaijan Phone Number List significant geopolitical challenges, the most prominent being the conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh. This territorial dispute involves Azerbaijan and Armenia and has roots that extend back to the early 20th century, but it intensified in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Historical Background
The Nagorno-Karabakh region, while internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan, is predominantly populated by ethnic Armenians. As the Soviet Union began to weaken, ethnic tensions flared, leading to a push for the region's unification with Armenia. In 1988, the local Armenian population declared their desire to join Armenia, which sparked violent clashes between Armenians and Azerbaijanis. By 1991, as the Soviet Union collapsed, full-scale war erupted.
The War and Its Aftermath
The conflict escalated into a brutal war from 1992 to 1994, resulting in significant military and civilian casualties on both sides. By the time a ceasefire was reached in 1994, Armenian forces had gained control over Nagorno-Karabakh and several surrounding districts, leading to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Azerbaijanis. The ceasefire, while ending active hostilities, did not resolve the underlying issues, and the region remained a source of tension and conflict.
Renewed Hostilities
In September 2020, the conflict flared up again, leading to a 44-day war. This conflict was characterized by the use of advanced military technology and resulted in significant territorial gains for Azerbaijan. By November 2020, a ceasefire agreement brokered by Russia was signed, allowing Azerbaijan to reclaim parts of Nagorno-Karabakh and surrounding territories. This renewed conflict highlighted Azerbaijan’s strengthened military capabilities and strategic partnerships, particularly with Turkey.
Current Situation
The ceasefire has not led to a permanent solution, and tensions remain high. The status of Nagorno-Karabakh continues to be a contentious issue, with sporadic clashes reported along the border. The international community, including the Minsk Group of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), has attempted to mediate the conflict, but a lasting resolution remains elusive.
Conclusion
The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is a defining issue for Azerbaijan since the Soviet Union's dissolution. It has shaped the country's national identity, influenced its foreign relations, and had profound social and economic impacts. The ongoing tensions illustrate the complexities of post-Soviet geopolitics in the South Caucasus, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive and sustainable peace process.