MOSCOW: The death toll resulting from a catastrophic explosion and fire at a fuel depot near Stepanakert, the capital of the Nagorno-Karabakh region, has surged to 125, as reported by Interfax Azerbaijan, citing the Armenian Health Ministry on Tuesday.
The explosion occurred days after a swift military operation by Azerbaijani forces, which led to their seizure of the contested Nagorno-Karabakh region. The military offensive prompted a mass exodus of tens of thousands of ethnic Armenians, who fled into neighboring Armenia to escape the turmoil.
The explosion and subsequent fire, which took place at a fuel depot near Stepanakert, have left a trail of destruction. The bodies of the deceased have been transported to Armenia for further processing and identification.
In addition to the tragic loss of lives, the Health Ministry stated that 190 people have been hospitalized, with several patients in critical condition. The warehouse, where the explosion occurred, was serving as a distribution point for fuel to those seeking to leave the region in their vehicles. A large number of people were present at the depot when the explosion happened.
To provide essential medical assistance and aid to the victims, a team of medics has arrived in Stepanakert via helicopter from Yerevan, carrying necessary medications and medical supplies, according to the healthcare ministry.
Azerbaijan Takes Control of Nagorno-Karabakh
This incident comes amidst a mass exodus of people from the region, with Armenia reporting that 13,350 “forcibly displaced persons” have entered the country. The Armenian government has pledged to provide accommodation and support for all those in need.
On the diplomatic front, national security advisers from Azerbaijan, Armenia, France, Germany, and the European Union’s special representative for the region are scheduled to convene in Brussels today. The talks, chaired by Simon Mordue, the chief diplomatic adviser to European Council President Charles Michel, aim to assess the current situation and prepare for a potential leaders’ meeting in Granada, Spain.
Azerbaijan initiated a military offensive against Nagorno-Karabakh rebels on September 19, announcing its control over the enclave just 24 hours later. The conflict led to ethnic Armenian authorities in the region agreeing to lay down arms and engage in “reintegration” talks, facilitated by Russia. Azerbaijani authorities pledged to respect the rights and security of Armenians living in the region. However, the prospect of reintegration into Azerbaijan has caused panic and chaos among ethnic Armenians, who harbor deep concerns about cohabitation due to a history of animosity and violence between the two communities.
