The World Council of Churches (WCC) has issued a statement urging the immediate release of Armenian detainees held in Azerbaijan, following the 58th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council.

The WCC expressed deep concern over the continued unlawful detention of Armenian prisoners, stating: "Taking and holding people hostage constitutes a grave violation of fundamental principles of international humanitarian law, including the Geneva Convention," according to Aysor.am .

The statement notes that between November 2020 and October 2023, Azerbaijan captured at least 23 Armenian citizens without legal grounds. The detainees included civilians, former and current officials, and military personnel.

“Many of them, as documented by human rights organizations, have been subjected to torture and degrading treatment.”

The WCC reaffirmed its demand for the immediate and unconditional release of all illegally detained individuals. “Prolonged detention accompanied by violations of legal protections undermines efforts toward lasting peace and reconciliation in the region.”

The Council also emphasized that the Human Rights Council must use all available means to facilitate the release of the Armenian detainees. It called on all involved parties to fully honor their obligations under international law.

“The World Council of Churches expresses solidarity with the Armenian Church and people, as well as with all those affected by this situation, and reaffirms its commitment to justice and peace,” the statement concluded.

U.S. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz stated he told Hikmet Hajiyev, advisor to the Azerbaijani president, that detainees should be freed and peace talks finalized.

Ruben Vardanyan’s attorney, Jared Genser, urged Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan to review statements from Donald Trump and Mike Waltz closely.