The International Court of Justice (ICJ) ordered Azerbaijan to “take all measures at its disposal” to ensure unimpeded movement through the Lachin Corridor, but Azerbaijan immediately rejected the ruling.
Court’s Decision
The ICJ ruling was decisive:
- Vote: 13-2 in favor of provisional measures
- Ordered immediate lifting of blockade
- Cited “serious risk of irreparable harm”
- Demanded free movement of persons and goods
- Required Azerbaijan to report on compliance
The Court is acutely aware of the humanitarian situation arising from the blocking of the Lachin Corridor. The circumstances require the indication of provisional measures.
Legal Significance
Azerbaijan’s Defiance
Baku’s response was swift and defiant:
- Denied blockade exists - Claimed protesters acting independently
- Questioned ICJ jurisdiction - Argued issue outside CERD scope
- Counter-accusations - Alleged Armenian “provocations”
- Continued restrictions - No change at Lachin checkpoint
Official Statement
“Azerbaijan has always ensured the safe passage of vehicles. The presence of peaceful protesters cannot be considered a blockade.” - Azerbaijan Foreign Ministry
Armenian Relief and Frustration
While Armenians welcomed the ruling, frustration grew over lack of enforcement mechanisms as the blockade continued despite the ICJ order.
Armenian reactions:
- Celebrations in Yerevan and Stepanakert
- Calls for international enforcement
- Documentation of continued violations
- Appeals to UN Security Council
International Response
US Statement
“We call on Azerbaijan to comply immediately with the ICJ’s order and fully restore free movement through the Lachin Corridor.”
EU Position
- Welcomed court decision
- Urged immediate compliance
- Warned of potential consequences
- Offered mediation assistance
Russian Reaction
Moscow’s response was notably muted:
- Acknowledged court ruling
- Called for “dialogue”
- No enforcement actions
- Peacekeepers remained passive
Humanitarian Situation Worsens
Despite the court order, conditions continued deteriorating:
- Day 72 of complete blockade
- Medical evacuations still blocked
- Food supplies critically low
- International aid denied access
- Population increasingly desperate
Legal vs Reality
The ICJ ruling highlighted the gap between international law and enforcement:
- Legal victory - Clear vindication of Armenian position
- Practical defeat - No mechanism to compel compliance
- Diplomatic tool - Increased pressure on Azerbaijan
- Limited impact - Blockade continued unabated
As days passed without compliance, questions grew about the effectiveness of international law in preventing humanitarian catastrophes.