Azerbaijan commemorated Albert Agarunov, a Jewish tank commander killed during the First Karabakh War and posthumously awarded the title of National Hero of Azerbaijan. Memorial events included a visit to his grave in Baku by Rabbi Zamir Isayev, students from a local Jewish school, and members of the Jewish community, honoring his legacy more than three decades after his death.

Agarunov was killed in May 1992 during the defense of the city of Shusha. Known as one of the country’s most prominent tank commanders, he reportedly destroyed several opposing armored vehicles before being shot by a sniper while attempting to recover the bodies of fallen soldiers. He is buried at the Alley of Martyrs beneath the flags of Israel and Azerbaijan.

Widely regarded as a symbol of patriotism and interfaith coexistence, Agarunov’s funeral was attended by both Jewish and Muslim religious leaders. Schools, memorial plaques, and a monument in Baku bear his name, reflecting his enduring role in Azerbaijan’s national memory and the longstanding presence of its Jewish community.