Armenia, Azerbaijan: Armenian and Azerbaijani declare a ceasefire in the disputed border zone, Sept. 14 /update 1

Event

A ceasefire was declared between Armenia and Azerbaijan along their national border, Sept. 14, following two days of fighting in which over 155 soldiers were killed. Tensions will remain high and military maneuvers are likely in the coming days. The most affected areas will include the cities of Goris, Sotk, and Djermouk in Armenia, and the Azerbaijani districts of Dashkesan, Kelbajar, and Lachin.

Continued military operations, further skirmishes, and localized escalations in violence could occur without warning anywhere in the conflict zone. Spontaneous or planned demonstrations in response to such incidents cannot be ruled out in major cities elsewhere in Armenia or Azerbaijan. Authorities will probably move quickly to disperse any such gatherings that may materialize.

Context

The two countries have long-standing tensions over the disputed territory of Nagorno-Karabakh (NK). While Armenian and Azerbaijani forces have frequently engaged in clashes both along the NK line of contact and the two countries shared border further north, this outbreak of violence is the most significant episode of fighting since August 2020.

Advice

Avoid nonessential travel to areas near the NK line of contact or close to the Armenia-Azerbaijan border until the situation stabilizes. If operating in these areas, exercise extreme caution; carry proper identification at all times, and heed the instructions of local security personnel. Consider alternate methods for routing shipments in the vicinity of the conflict zone. Avoid all protests. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation.