International Court Greenlights Armenia's Case Against Azerbaijan

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) dismissed Azerbaijan's objections to Armenia's anti-discrimination case, allowing it to proceed. Filed in 2021, the case involves allegations of ethnic cleansing in Nagorno-Karabakh, a region retaken by Azerbaijan in 2023. Each country accuses the other of UN treaty violations.

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has dismissed objections from Azerbaijan to an anti-discrimination case initiated by Armenia, clearing the way for the proceedings to advance. Filed in 2021, Armenia's case accuses Azerbaijan of carrying out ethnic cleansing, while Azerbaijan counters with similar claims against Armenia.

In response to Armenia's case, the court previously imposed emergency measures, mandating Azerbaijan permit the return of ethnic Armenians who had fled Nagorno-Karabakh in September 2023. The region, which enjoyed de facto independence for 30 years, was reclaimed by Azerbaijan last year, causing mass displacement to Armenia.

Azerbaijan maintains it guarantees safety for all residents in the disputed region, dismissing allegations of forcing ethnic Armenians out. Concurrently, it accuses Armenia of implementing an ethnic cleansing strategy against Azeris. The ICJ's rulings will play a crucial role in mediating this ongoing international conflict.

(With inputs from agencies.)