Azerbaijan Marks Fourth Anniversary of Aghdam’s Liberation from Armenian Occupation

Baku, The Gulf Observer: Today marks the fourth anniversary of the liberation of Aghdam, a pivotal event in Azerbaijan’s history that ended 27 years of Armenian occupation. This milestone follows the 44-day Patriotic War, during which Azerbaijani forces launched a counter-offensive on September 27, 2020, and successfully reclaimed key territories, including Aghdam, by November 9, 2020.

The liberation was a result of decisive military actions that saw Azerbaijani forces recapture over 300 settlements, such as Aghdara, Murovdagh, and strategic highlands near Zangilan. The war culminated in the liberation of Shusha on November 8, 2020, prompting Armenia to sign a trilateral ceasefire agreement on November 10, under which Aghdam was returned to Azerbaijan.

In accordance with the trilateral statement, signed by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, Aghdam was officially liberated on November 20, 2020. This was followed by the liberation of Kalbajar and Lachin districts in the subsequent weeks, all without further casualties.

In a speech to the nation on the day of Aghdam’s liberation, President Aliyev lauded the Azerbaijani military’s achievement, stating, “If Azerbaijan had not defeated Armenia militarily, they would not have withdrawn from our territories willingly.” He emphasized that the military triumph under his leadership was critical to the peaceful return of Aghdam and other territories.

To commemorate this historic moment, President Aliyev issued a decree earlier this year declaring November 20 as Aghdam City Day. Additionally, a special medal, “For the Liberation of Aghdam,” was created to honor the bravery and heroism of the Azerbaijani soldiers who played a key role in the district’s reclamation.

Aghdam, once a thriving urban center, was extensively destroyed during its occupation, which began on July 23, 1993. The city, once home to numerous cultural monuments, was devastated, with its buildings looted and razed. The minaret of Aghdam’s mosque, which withstood the destruction, became a symbol of the city’s tragic history. The scale of devastation led American journalist Thomas de Waal to compare the destruction to that of Hiroshima after the 1945 atomic bombing, earning Aghdam the grim title of “Hiroshima of the Caucasus.”

In the years following the liberation, Azerbaijan has committed to rebuilding and restoring Aghdam, turning it into a symbol of resilience and national pride. The anniversary of its liberation serves as a testament to the sacrifices made and the enduring strength of the Azerbaijani people in reclaiming their homeland.