Aliyev’s Bodyguards Assault Azerbaijani Activists in Washington

WASHINGTON, DC — The Washington prosecutor’s office is investigating an incident involving members of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev’s security service, who, according to eyewitnesses and widely circulated videos, violently assaulted Azerbaijani exile activists holding a peaceful protest outside the Waldorf Astoria hotel.

The incident occurred on February 19, when a group of opposition activists gathered near the luxury hotel in the U.S. capital, calling for the release of political prisoners in Azerbaijan, including prominent opposition figure Tofig Yagublu.

Footage shared online appears to show members of the president’s security detail using force against demonstrators, resulting in injuries.

Media outlets aligned with the Azerbaijani government described the incident as a “provocation,” claiming that protesters attempted to forcibly enter the hotel. However, participants in the rally strongly deny these allegations.

Rahim Yagublu, son of Tofig Yagublu, told Reuters that their small group was simply exercising its right to free speech when they were attacked. He said he was struck during the altercation and that his clothes were torn.

President Aliyev had arrived in Washington to attend the inaugural session of the Peace Council.

Azerbaijani authorities have not yet issued an official statement regarding the incident, traditionally maintaining that democratic norms are respected in the country. Human rights advocates, however, report that there are approximately 340 political prisoners in Azerbaijan.