Azerbaijan Marks Fifth Anniversary of Tovuz Battles Victory
Baku, The Gulf Observer: Today marks the fifth anniversary of the Tovuz battles, a pivotal and heroic episode in Azerbaijan’s modern military history. On July 12, 2020, the Azerbaijani Armed Forces successfully repelled provocations by the Armenian armed forces in the direction of the Tovuz region, located along the state border between the two countries.
According to media reports, the Tovuz battles are commemorated as a symbol of national resilience and military strength, with the Azerbaijani Army inflicting significant losses on the opposing side. More than 100 Armenian servicemen were killed, and numerous military structures were destroyed during the intense clashes.
The confrontation also witnessed the heroic martyrdom of several distinguished Azerbaijani officers and soldiers, including:
- Major General Polad Hashimov
- Colonel Ilgar Mirzayev
- Major Namig Ahmadov
- Major Anar Novruzov
- Senior Lieutenant Rashad Mahmudov
- Warrant Officer Ilgar Zeynalov
- Warrant Officer Yashar Babayev
- Sergeant Elchin Mustafazade
- Chief Sergeant Vugar Sadigov
- Sergeant Nazim Ismayilov
- Chief Soldier Elshad Mammadov
- Soldier Khayyam Dashdamirov
In addition, the civilian population also suffered casualties. A 76-year-old resident, Aziz Aliyev, was killed when an Armenian-fired shell struck his home in the Aghdam village of Tovuz. Several residential buildings, schools, administrative offices, and civil infrastructure in the border villages were severely damaged due to relentless artillery and mortar attacks by Armenian forces.
In recognition of their extraordinary bravery and service, President Ilham Aliyev, by decree dated December 9, 2020, posthumously conferred the title of “National Hero of Azerbaijan” upon Major General Polad Hashimov and Colonel Ilgar Mirzayev for their outstanding contributions to the defense of the country’s territorial integrity.
The Tovuz battles remain a defining moment in Azerbaijan’s military history, symbolizing the courage and sacrifice of its armed forces and the unity of the Azerbaijani people in the face of external aggression.
