Thousands flee Nagorno-Karabakh to Armenia amid ongoing border disruptions
In the latest updates, authorities report that over 50,000 people have sought refuge in Armenia from Nagorno-Karabakh following fresh security and displacement pressures. The information was confirmed by the press secretary to Armenia’s Prime Minister, Nazeli Bagdasaryan, who noted the number of new arrivals had surpassed fifty thousand as of mid-afternoon local time. The figure reflects those who crossed the Hakari Bridge in the Armenian region near the border with Karabakh, as reported by multiple news outlets and government briefings.
Officials described the movement as forced displacement, driven by security concerns and political instability in Nagorno-Karabakh. In a separate briefing, it was stated that more than 20,000 residents had relocated to Armenia since September 24, underscoring a rapid and ongoing humanitarian flow. Bagdasarian has been actively involved in coordinating government responses for several days, with registration and intake procedures continuing at immigrant accommodation centers across the country.
On the ground, authorities have been managing a growing influx of civilians who require shelter, basic services, and security assurances. In one notable development, a fuel-tanked vehicle was distributed to residents along the Stepanakert-Askeran corridor to facilitate transportation toward Armenian settlements. This effort aimed to ease the movement of people amid ongoing security operations nearby and to ensure access to safer routes for those leaving the region.
Past statements from the Azerbaijan Ministry of Defense indicated the commencement of a local counter-terrorism operation in Nagorno-Karabakh, which has heightened tensions and contributed to the ongoing displacement crisis. The situation has drawn international attention to the humanitarian needs of those who have fled, including families with children, the elderly, and people with chronic health concerns who require ongoing support and medical care.
In related developments, reports have identified incidents involving security forces and local residents, with several individuals detained or questioned amid the broader regional crisis. The evolving conditions in Karabakh continue to shape both humanitarian access and the broader security discourse in the South Caucasus region.
Experts emphasize that the current refugee flow highlights the importance of coordinated international assistance, border management, and rapid response mechanisms to protect civilians. Communities in Armenia hosting newcomers are adapting to the increased demand for housing, schooling, and social services, while national authorities monitor security threats and strive to maintain stability for all residents in the border area. The situation remains fluid, with authorities pledging ongoing updates as new information becomes available.
Observers note that the displacement episode is unfolding against a backdrop of long-standing territorial disputes, political disagreements, and episodic violence in the Nagorno-Karabakh region. The humanitarian priority is to ensure safety, provide essential supplies, and support integration efforts for those who arrive seeking shelter and a chance to rebuild their lives.
As the day progresses, government spokespeople reiterate that registration and aid distribution will continue, and they call on local communities to extend welcome and practical assistance to those seeking refuge. The international community is watching closely, calling for restraint and urging all parties to protect civilians and uphold humanitarian norms during this challenging period.