Azerbaijan and Armenia have defied calls for a ceasefire after the worst fighting in decades between the two over a disputed territory.  The US, France and Russia jointly condemned the fighting in Nagorno-Karabakh, in the southern Caucasus.

But Turkey - an ally of Azerbaijan - dismissed demands for a ceasefire.  Nagorno-Karabakh is officially part of Azerbaijan but governed by separatist ethnic Armenians. Years of negotiations have never resulted in a peace treaty.

Azerbaijan and Armenia fought a war in 1988-94 over the territory. Armenia backs the self-declared republic but has never officially recognised it.  Heavy shelling persisted overnight in the region's main city, despite mounting international concern.

At least 100 people have reportedly been killed with hundreds wounded in the latest flare-up.

More at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-54366616

Pray for the hostilities to cease and for a return to negotiations.

Pray for the safety of civilians living in the disputed regions.

Pray that external interference will be brought to light and that this war does not escalate.

This message was received from a German humanitarian/prayer organization:

Dear friends in Christ Jesus,

We would like to inform you that from 27.09.2020 until today, 29.09.2020, the attacks of Azerbaijan troops, which are supported by Turkey, do not stop. Azerbaijan troops have been bombing not only armed forces but also villages and towns. By the grace of God, our armed forces are still able to guard the borders and prevent the enemy troops from invading and destroying the civilian population. At the moment we already have 84 casualties among soldiers who gave their lives for their country.

Our church, along with other churches, fervently prays to God, and thanks to God that He hears our prayers and protects our country from an adversary that several times is larger in number and armor. A state of war has been declared in our country as well as general conscription.

There are also brothers from our church who are currently in the army, and some have either been conscripted or went as volunteers. We also try to support our army with financial and economic means, as well as to help families who moved from Artsakh, which is Nagorno Karabakh. Right now we are making food for families who are standing before hospitals whole day long because their relative soldier is wounded moved to a hospital.

Please, earnestly pray for the people of our country, so that God's peace may descend on the borders and reconciliation may be established between the neighboring fighting countries.