Zeynab Allahverdiyeva

In Zeynab Allahverdiyeva’s opinion, her life in Zangilan before the occupation was filled with happiness and a strong connection to nature. She recalls the beauty of the land, the rivers, forests, and the fruits they harvested from the forest—pears, cherries, and apples. She speaks with pride about Zangilan’s natural beauty and remembers how, even after the occupation, she remained emotionally tied to her homeland. Zeynab describes her deep love for Azerbaijan and the overwhelming experience of returning to Zangilan after its liberation, where she knelt down and kissed the land in gratitude.

Zeynab’s life was forever changed by the Armenian occupation of Zangilan in October 1993. Forced to flee with her family, she recalls the heart-wrenching decision to leave their home, where they had hoped to remain despite the approaching Armenian forces. She recounts how her son, in an act of desperation, threatened to detonate a grenade. It was only after this that they fled to Baku, leaving behind everything they had built.

One of the most painful memories Zeynab shares is the loss of her son, Gorkhmaz, who was martyred during the war. She recalls the moment when she was informed that her son had been injured in battle, but deep down, she knew he had passed away. Despite the official reports stating that Gorkhmaz was injured, Zeynab felt in her heart that he had died, knowing her son’s strength and courage. Gorkhmaz had been a determined and brave soldier, leading his comrades to victory in battle by destroying an Armenian tank. Tragically, he was killed by an Armenian sniper shortly after, but his bravery remained an enduring source of pride for Zeynab.

Reflecting on her life as a refugee in Baku, Zeynab describes the difficult conditions her family faced after fleeing Zangilan. She and her family lived in a temporary shelter for eight years, enduring a lack of basic necessities such as clean water and adequate shelter. Slowly, they worked to improve their situation, and over time, they were able to rebuild their lives. Zeynab credits Azerbaijan’s leadership, particularly President Heydar Aliyev and his son, President Ilham Aliyev, for supporting displaced families and guiding the country toward the eventual liberation of Karabakh.

Zeynab also shares the emotional journey of returning to Zangilan for the first time after its liberation in 2020. She vividly describes the experience of visiting the Martyrs’ Alley, where her son’s grave is located, and finding her family’s home in ruins. Despite the destruction, Zeynab remains optimistic about the future, expressing her desire to return to Zangilan permanently and rebuild her home. She recalls the joy of seeing the land once again, describing it as a paradise, untouched by the war in many areas. Her deep connection to the land is evident as she speaks about the animals and nature that greeted her upon her return.

Looking ahead, Zeynab is hopeful for the future of Zangilan and the restoration of her homeland. She expresses her faith in the Azerbaijani government and its commitment to rebuilding the liberated territories. Zeynab is eager to return to her village, plant new trees, and continue the life she left behind so many years ago. She concludes by expressing her pride in her children and grandchildren, who have all served their country with honor and dedication, and she remains steadfast in her belief that her family’s sacrifices were not in vain.