By dismantling the illegal separatist regime in the Karabakh region, Azerbaijan restored its territorial integrity and sovereignty, asserting both international and moral rights, as well as historical justice.
Having tired of empty promises and “advice” to accept the occupation as a permanent reality, Azerbaijan shattered the plans of those who supported Armenian criminal groups. For nearly 30 years, Azerbaijan called on international platforms for pressure on Armenia to enforce four UN Security Council resolutions in Azerbaijan’s favor. Yet no action was taken; international law and resolutions went unheeded, no sanctions were applied to the aggressor, and Azerbaijan’s appeals received no response. This continued until Azerbaijan took decisive measures. When the world saw that Baku was determined to see this through to victory, a backlash erupted, condemning Azerbaijan.
What stands out is how some so-called defenders of “oppressed” Armenians have suddenly turned to moral vigilance and pleas for humanity. Given that Baku violated no laws, the appeals to compassion and other lofty ideals have no weight here. Azerbaijanis, immune to such manipulative tactics, understand that these old tricks won’t work this time.
It’s rather absurd to hear compassion and nobility discussed by those who have rarely embodied them. After Azerbaijan’s victory, Baku decided to establish an outdoor museum—Victory Park—showcasing artifacts from the war and symbolizing the powerful blows dealt to the adversary.
The park displays wrecked Armenian military equipment as a reminder of the pivotal elements that forged the Great Victory. The park’s opening triggered anti-Azerbaijan propaganda, with accusations of cynicism and alleged disrespect toward Armenian war casualties, claiming the display hinders peace efforts.
As if the absence of such a museum in Baku would have immediately resolved Armenian-Azerbaijani relations. As for the alleged “disrespect” to Armenian casualties, it raises a question: what were Armenian soldiers doing on Azerbaijani soil? Azerbaijan’s calls for them to leave were met with howls of “humiliation.”
Moreover, similar museums exist around the world, but the criticism is directed only at Baku.
Now, the furor has turned toward Baku’s construction of Victory Park. Was Azerbaijan supposed to ask permission?
Armenian authorities, who ordered missile strikes on Azerbaijani cities in 2020, resulting in civilian deaths, including children, had the audacity to speak of Azerbaijan’s “inhumane behavior.” Baku could have responded with strikes on Yerevan but refrained, aware of the provocation’s intent. Azerbaijan refuses to stoop to such levels.
Regarding Victory Park in Baku, Armenian critics have resorted to legal and ethical arguments. We found this amusing, as none of these points hold any basis. So, let’s move on, shall we? How many times must we endure this tired refrain?
Which “rights” are they referring to? Isn’t it convenient to remember rights when it suits? Yet here they miscalculated, for no legal grounds exist that could prevent Baku from building a museum or park commemorating victory over an aggressor. Had there been no occupation, there would be no museum. Perhaps we should discuss the rights of Azerbaijanis forced from their homes or the lives lost to Armenian aggression. There are many rights in question, and if Baku starts listing them, Armenians would run out of time.
As for ethics and morality—it’s striking how some display such gall.
Armenians, who erected a monument to fascist collaborator Nzhde in their capital and glorify killers and nationalists, lecture others on morality…
Armenians, who suddenly express concern for humanitarian principles and the fragile peace process, might elicit sympathy from some, but we know that a foot that has once set itself on foreign soil might try again. Armenia may hide behind a facade of decency while supporting revanchist forces, but Azerbaijan stands firm in its rightful actions, committed to its chosen path. Who should Baku justify itself to? To those who killed Azerbaijani civilians and occupied lands, or to those defending and justifying them today?
It’s easy to sit and pontificate about rights and laws, adjusting one’s glasses as emotions surge. Condemnations, criticism, and slander against Azerbaijan are empty words, as even the participants in this pro-Armenian hysteria know there are no valid legal claims against Azerbaijan.
Alla Zeydullayeva
Translated from minval.az
