Following the large-scale attack in the Nagorno-Karabakh/Artsakh region, conducted by Azerbaijani forces under the pretext of countering terrorism, Pope Francis has called for peaceful solutions in the region. At the conclusion of his General Audience, the Pope also extended his thoughts to the “tormented Ukraine,” and expressed concern for the deteriorating health of former Italy’s President Giorgio Napolitano.
During the general audience, Pope Francis stated, “Yesterday, I received concerning reports from Nagorno-Karabakh, where the already dire humanitarian situation has been further exacerbated by ongoing armed conflicts. I appeal to all parties involved and to the international community to lay down their weapons and make every possible effort to seek peaceful resolutions that uphold human dignity.”
With regard to the already severe humanitarian situation, Pope Francis referred to the blockade of the Lachin corridor, the sole access route connecting the Armenian capital, Yerevan, with the Nagorno-Karabakh/Artsakh territory. Following the 2020 war, Armenia reluctantly ceded control of several territories in the region, which were subsequently placed under Azerbaijani administration. However, these areas are predominantly inhabited by Armenians. Azerbaijan contends its historical presence in the region, while lamenting that Armenians, upon gaining control of the territory in the 1990s, allegedly destroyed Azerbaijani cultural heritage. Conversely, Armenians have highlighted the “cultural genocide” perpetrated by Azerbaijanis since taking control of the region in the last century, erasing traces of ancient Armenian presence, particularly churches and “kachkar,” Armenian cross-stones.
On September 19, the Azerbaijani Ministry of Defense announced the commencement of an “anti-terrorism operation” aimed at “restoring constitutional order” in the independent region of Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh). This action followed the deaths of four soldiers and two civilians in the Khojavend district due to an anti-tank mine explosion. Baku claims that Armenian rebels planted the mine. The attack swiftly reached Stepanakert, the capital of the Republic of Artsakh, which lacks international recognition.
For several months, the region has been under a complete economic blockade, depriving the civilian population of access to imported goods, including essential items like food and medicine. Armenia, for the time being, has refrained from engaging in armed conflict with Azerbaijan, a decision that has provoked various protests.
The context surrounding the Pope’s statements is critical. Pope Francis also wished to convey his thoughts to President Giorgio Napolitano, who “finds himself in grave health conditions: may this dedicated servant of the nation find solace.”
Lastly, Pope Francis expressed his sympathy and offered prayers for Ukraine.
