Artsakh parliament condemns sham trial of Armenian hostages in Baku

Members of the Artsakh National Assembly have expressed deep concern and indignation over the upcoming sham trial of 16 Armenian hostages in Azerbaijan.

“This is yet another attempt to undermine their fundamental rights and indicates Azerbaijan’s growing policy of Armenophobia,” they said in a joint statement on Thursday.

“The so-called “trial,” conducted under inhumane conditions, is based on groundless charges and marred by gross procedural violations, rendering it completely illegitimate and unlawful. These actions are part of the Azerbaijani regime’s attempts to legitimize its genocidal policies targeting Armenians, particularly the people of Artsakh.

“We call on all countries committed to human rights and peace in the region, international organizations and human rights institutions to take practical steps to secure the immediate release of all hostages. The international community should adopt a clear and principled stance, condemning Azerbaijan’s inhumane policies and halting any attempts to conduct illegal trials,” the statement said.

The Artsakh MPs also urged the Armenian leadership to raise the issue in all relevant forums and negotiations.

“Protecting the rights of Armenian hostages and ensuring their safe return is both a legal and moral obligation for Armenia’s state institutions,” they stressed.

“In addition, we call on our compatriots to remain vigilant against disinformation and psychological provocations aimed at weakening national unity. It is vital to avoid disseminating Azerbaijani narratives or criticizing Armenians for statements made under duress. Such statements are often twisted by Azerbaijan’s propaganda machine, thus it is crucial to remain highly vigilant and uphold a strong sense of national responsibility.

“When Armenians are subjected to torture in Azerbaijani prisons or face trials, the dignity of all Armenians is under attack. Defending their rights and ensuring their immediate release is a moral imperative that transcends individual views about the detainees.

“The National Assembly of the Artsakh Republic reaffirms its unwavering commitment to defending the rights and collective interests of the Artsakh people, prioritizing the immediate repatriation of Armenian captives,” reads the statement.