PRESIDENT ILHAM ALIYEV'S STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP: PAVING THE PATH TO AZERBAIJAN'S GREAT VICTORY

This paper analyzes the multi-faceted strategy employed by President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan, which culminated in the "Great Victory" in the Second Karabakh War in 2020. Drawing on a series of political, military, and diplomatic actions from 2016 onwards, the study demonstrates how a long-term vision, characterized by military modernization, assertive diplomacy, and effective information warfare, enabled Azerbaijan to reclaim its occupied territories. The paper argues that Aliyev's leadership transformed a protracted conflict into a decisive military and political triumph, fundamentally altering the geopolitical landscape of the South Caucasus. Key events such as the "Four-Day War," the Munich Security Conference debate, and the "Iron Fist" operation are examined to illustrate the strategic coherence of Azerbaijan's approach under his command.