Scuffle erupts in Armenian parliament

Tensions ran high in Armenia’s National Assembly as a heated exchange escalated into a physical altercation involving pro-government and opposition lawmakers on Wednesday.

During a parliament session, Levon Kocharyan, an MP from the opposition Hayastan faction, criticized Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's “hysterical” behavior during a recent Q&A session between the government and the parliament.

“Nikol Pashinyan doesn't seem as disturbed when he’s called a Turk or a traitor, but the corruption issue clearly hits a nerve,” he stated.

Deputy Speaker Hakob Arshakyan confronted Kocharyan angrily as he took the parliament floor.

“Mr. Kocharyan, know your limits… Calm down and take your seat. This is outrageous!” Arshakyan said, raising his voice.

“Did I interrupt you while you were speaking? I will kick you out of this hall if you keep this up," he continued.

The confrontation quickly escalated into a scuffle, with MPs pushing and shouting at each other. Arshakyan demanded order, addressing the MPs involved: “Garnik Danielyan, take your seat. Levon Kocharyan, leave the hall immediately!”