Armenian Separatist Leader Araik Harutyunyan Resigns Amidst Political and International Developments

Bakuı/31.08.23/Turan: The news of the impending resignation of Armenian separatist leader Araik Harutyunyan from the position of "president" has been confirmed. In a statement released on Facebook, Harutyunyan revealed his intention to submit his resignation to the people and the self-proclaimed "National Assembly Karabakh." This decision comes after extensive interactions with both internal and external stakeholders and following careful analysis of the prevailing circumstances. Harutyunyan emphasized that his decision was made independently and is based on his own assessment of the situation. He affirmed his intention to remain in Nagorno-Karabakh with his family.

Notably, Harutyunyan announced the dismissal of Gurgen Nersisyan from the post of State Minister (Prime Minister) and appointed Samvel Shahramanyan as the new Secretary of the Security Council, thereby endowing him with substantial authority.

Recent reports from the Azerbaijani Ministry of Foreign Affairs indicate that around 50 ethnic Armenians conducted a rally in front of the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Lebanon. The protestors reportedly hurled paint bottles and explosives at the embassy building. Although the embassy staff remained unharmed, the Azerbaijani Ministry of Foreign Affairs submitted a formal complaint to the Lebanese Foreign Ministry regarding the attack.

In a separate diplomatic move, the French Ambassador, Anne Boillon, was summoned to the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry on August 31. During this meeting, the Ambassador received a note of protest in response to what Azerbaijan considers the dispatch of "humanitarian cargo" vehicles toward the "Lachyn" checkpoint on the state border. The convoy allegedly included leaders from several French cities, including the Mayor of Paris, Anne Hidalgo, who had previously made statements deemed provocative by Azerbaijan.

Political analyst Elkhan Shahinoglu provided insights on these developments during the "Difficult Question" program. Shahinoglu noted that following the defeat in the 44-day war and Azerbaijan's establishment of a checkpoint on the Lachyn road, ideological divisions and internal strife have escalated among the irredentists who found themselves in dire straits.

According to Shahinoglu, internal tensions intensified with accusations being flung among irredentist factions, with Araik Harutyunyan being a target. Although Harutyunyan initially sought to resign after the war, Moscow, which held influence over him, apparently prevented his departure. Shahinoglu highlighted that the situation has now spiraled out of control, necessitating Harutyunyan's resignation.

Looking forward, Shahinoglu posited that Harutyunyan's successor will either continue the provocative stance of his predecessor or seek dialogue with Baku, potentially leading to the opening of the Aghdam road. Either way, the divide among the irredentists is expected to deepen.

Shahinoglu cautioned that if the successor resists Azerbaijan, the situation could further deteriorate for the irredentists. Conversely, if the new leader pursues rapprochement with Baku, it might be met with opposition from radicals in Khankendi. Shahinoglu speculated that this could eventually compel Azerbaijani authorities to intervene and restore order.

Despite mounting international pressure, Shahinoglu underscored the Azerbaijani government's unwavering determination to restore stability within its borders. As