On September 26, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken placed a phone call to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev.

During their conversation, they discussed the recent developments in the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan, particularly regarding the anti-terrorism measures taken against Armenia’s armed forces.

The head of state clarified that the anti-terrorism operations had exclusively targeted military facilities, lasting less than 24 hours and causing no harm to civilians. He also informed the American side about the ongoing process of disarming illegal Armenian armed forces and their withdrawal from Azerbaijani territory. Over the past five days, hundreds of pieces of military equipment, weapons, supplies, and ammunition had been seized.

Additionally, President Aliyev mentioned that military representatives from foreign countries accredited in Azerbaijan and the UN Resident Coordinator Office had inspected the confiscated weapons and equipment.

He emphasized that Azerbaijan is committed to upholding the rights of Armenian residents in the Karabakh region and other ethnic minorities in accordance with national laws and international obligations. The dialogue on reintegration is ongoing, with humanitarian aid being sent to Armenian residents, and infrastructure restoration is in progress.

President Aliyev also highlighted ongoing cooperation with the International Committee of the Red Cross to provide assistance to Armenian residents and expressed readiness to facilitate a visit by the UN Resident Coordinator Office to the Karabakh region in the near future.

Secretary Blinken expressed concern about the current situation and stressed the importance of regional stability and dialogue with local Armenians.