Zangilan:Six years have passed since Zangilan city was liberated from occupation. The Azerbaijani Army freed the city on October 20, 2020, following a counter-operation that began on September 27, 2020.
According to Azeri-Press news agency, the Azerbaijani Army expanded its operations, entering Zangilan district on the 24th day of fighting. The army successfully pushed back enemy forces, freeing several settlements in the district.
The liberation news was announced by President and Supreme Commander Ilham Aliyev. In his address on October 20, he detailed the liberation of villages across Fuzuli, Jabrayil, and Khojavand districts, as well as the entry into Zangilan district, liberating Zangilan city and several villages.
The Azerbaijani Army inflicted a significant defeat on Armenian forces in Zangilan, reaching the border with Armenia. In recognition of their bravery, the ‘For the Liberation of Zangilan’ medal was established. Military personnel involved in the operations received this honor, and October 20 was declared Zangilan City Day.
Zangilan district had been under occupation since October 29, 1993. During this time, cultural and historical sites were destroyed, and the environment suffered due to exploitation and pollution from Armenian industrial activities. The pollution of the Okhchuchay River is regarded as a major ecological crime.