The news of Azeri shelling on the Armenian border towns of Jermuk, Goris, Sotk, Vartenis, Artanish, Ishkhanasar, and Kapan in the early hours of September 13th, resulting in a significant number of deaths among Armenia’s defense forces responding to the aggressions, has put the world on notice once again. The security and territorial integrity of the Armenian state and the safety of its people are on the line. 

The Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU), the world’s largest Armenian non-profit organization, has long understood the implications of these acts of war and violations of international norms by Azerbaijan during and since the ceasefire agreement designed to end the 2020 Artsakh War. We also recognize the serious potential humanitarian toll these Azeri attacks on Armenian soil can unleash. Therefore, we call upon the international community, the Armenians of the Diaspora, and all people of goodwill to unite against Azerbaijan’s ambitions to dominate the region by targeting these vulnerable border communities in Armenia. 

The first step is to put all internal political divisions aside immediately and concentrate our attentions on uniting all of our forces and resources to form a solid front to face this existential threat to the Armenian homeland. As always, AGBU is committed to doing its part to strengthen the resilience of our nation and state.

In the meantime, we extend our heartfelt sympathies to the families and loved ones who have lost service members to Azerbaijan’s most recent incident of baseless aggression.

The Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU) is the world’s largest non-profit organization devoted to upholding the Armenian heritage through educational, cultural and humanitarian programs. Each year, AGBU is committed to making a difference in the lives of 500,000 people across Armenia, Artsakh and the Armenian diaspora.  Since 1906, AGBU has remained true to one overarching goal: to create a foundation for the prosperity of all Armenians. To learn more visit www.agbu.org