Clash Erupts Between Police and Protesters Outside Yerevan's National Assembly

A clash between police and protesters erupted on Wednesday evening outside the National Assembly building in Yerevan. The conflict unfolded as protesters attempted to cross the intersection of Baghramyan and Demirchyan Streets but were blocked by police officers. The intense confrontation resulted in several people being injured, fainting, and falling to the ground. Among those caught in the middle were correspondents from The Armenian Report.

For the third consecutive day, supporters of the opposition movement Tavush for the Homeland, led by Archbishop Bagrat Galstanyan, have occupied Baghramyan Avenue, the main entrance to the National Assembly (NA) of Armenia. The avenue remains closed off by the movement, with numerous tents set up along the street.

In response to the protests, the police have formed a human chain, blocking the entrances to Demirchyan Street from both Baghramyan Avenue and Proshyan Street, which leads to the Prime Minister’s residence. 

Early Wednesday morning, Archbishop Bagrat Galstanyan live streamed an update on the situation from Baghramyan Avenue. He announced that he was expecting supporters to join him at 3 PM that day.

The protests and acts of civil disobedience led by the Tavush for the Homeland movement began after it was revealed on April 19 that Armenia and Azerbaijan had agreed to start border delimitation at Tavush Province. Following this news, Archbishop Galstanyan and his supporters held demonstrations in Kirants village, Tavush Province, for several days. Galstanyan then announced his intention to march to Yerevan to demand the resignation of Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.

On May 9, Archbishop Galstanyan arrived in Yerevan and held a large rally, reiterating his demand for Pashinyan’s resignation. During another rally on May 26, the movement announced the formation of a transitional government, with Archbishop Galstanyan as the candidate for Prime Minister.

The ongoing protests have drawn attention, reflecting the growing political tensions in Armenia. As the situation continues to evolve, both the government and opposition remain firm in their positions, leaving the future of the country’s political environment uncertain.