Yerevan calls for investigation of alleged execution of Armenian POWs by Azerbaijani soldiers

The authenticity of a video that surfaced on Telegram, allegedly showing Armenian prisoners of war executed by Azerbaijani soldiers, was confirmed by Armenia’s human rights ombudsman on Sunday.

Armenian Human Rights Defender Kristine Grigoryan said in a statement that the video is new and was shot during a large-scale attack by the Azerbaijani forces in a territory of the Republic of Armenia on September 13.

"The fact is confirmed by the study of the terrain, comparison with similar videos available in our and other databases, as well as the complex combination of weather conditions, uniforms of servicemen, conversation of Azerbaijani servicemen and other parameters," she said.

Armenian Defense Ministry also said that there is no uncertainty about the authenticity of the video.

While Armenian authorities decided to apply to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) and UN Court of Justice, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan called on the international community to condemn the incident and take measures. He said on Twitter:

"Yet another horrific video circulated in social media: Azerbaijani soldiers are arbitrarily executing group of #Armenian POWs on sovereign Armenian territory. Int'l community should strongly condemn & address this war crime & take appropriate measures to halt Az's aggression."

US State Department spokesperson Ned Price said on Monday:

"The United States is deeply disturbed by recent reports of Azerbaijani soldiers executing unarmed Armenian prisoners. We call for a full and impartial investigation. Those responsible for any atrocities must be held to account."