Black January: Azerbaijan Remembers the 1990 Soviet Crackdown
Azerbaijan on January 20 commemorates the victims of the tragic events of 1990, widely known as Black January, which followed rising tensions linked to attempts to annex Nagorno-Karabakh and the expulsion of Azerbaijanis from their historical villages.
On the night of January 19–20, Soviet military units entered Baku and nearby regions under orders from the then Soviet leadership, using heavy weaponry against civilians. The operation left deep scars on the nation.
A total of 131 civilians were killed and 744 wounded, including women, children, elderly citizens, medical workers and police officers. Hundreds were arrested, while homes, vehicles and public property suffered extensive damage.
National leader Heydar Aliyev strongly condemned the crackdown, calling it a grave crime against the Azerbaijani people and a violation of law, democracy and humanity.
Despite the tragedy, the events of January 1990 became a turning point in Azerbaijan’s struggle for independence, strengthening national unity and resolve.
Today, the people of Azerbaijan offer prayers for the souls of the January 20 martyrs, honoring their sacrifice with deep respect. May Allah grant the martyrs the highest place in Jannah, and may their courage and sacrifice continue to inspire future generations.
