October 20 marks a significant milestone for the city of Zangilan in Azerbaijan as it celebrated the fourth anniversary of its liberation from Armenian occupation. On this day in 2020, President Ilham Aliyev, the Supreme Commander-in-Chief, proudly announced the liberation of Zangilan and six surrounding villages - Havali, Zerneli, Mammadbayli, Hakari, Sharifan, and Mughanli.
The liberation of Zangilan was part of a broader military operation along the southern front near the Araz River, which saw the Azerbaijani Army also free numerous villages in the Fuzuli, Jabrayil, and Khojavand districts. The tricolor flag of Azerbaijan was raised in all liberated territories, symbolizing the nation's triumph and resilience.
Zangilan is located on the southern side of the Lesser Caucasus mountains and bordering Iran. Prior to the occupation, the district which emcompasses an area of 707 square kilometers had a population of 39,000. The Armenian occupation, which began on October 30, 1993, lasted for 27 years and left the region in ruins. The district center and its 5 settlements and 79 villages were subjected to vandalism, with homes, historical monuments, and infrastructure completely destroyed, while gardens and forests were mercilessly cut down.
In recognition of Zangilan's liberation and its ongoing revival, President Ilham Aliyev issued a decree on July 31, 2023, declaring October 20 as the Day of the City of Zangilan.