I am Israel's ambassador to Azerbaijan. I've been a diplomat for 12 years. I usually keep my promises, but this promise I couldn’t keep. THREAD

A couple of weeks ago, I visited the city of Ganja after it was struck by rockets. I went to view the damage in residential areas. Many locals came to speak to me, sharing devastating stories. Then a young boy, around 12 years old, approached me.

He said that he heard Israel has good doctors. He asked if Israel could save his friend who was in the hospital. His aunt showed me pictures. She had tears in her eyes. “Please, he got injured in the bombing, he’s in a coma at the hospital," she said. "He’s a good kid, help him."

I was deeply moved. I promised to help. We took the boy’s name. It was Artur Mayakov. Already that evening we began to see if there’s anything we could do. But I couldn’t keep my promise. Two days later, Artur died from his injuries. He was 13 years old. I was heart-broken.

A few days ago, I went to the Russian Orthodox church in Baku. I prayed and lit a candle for Artur. I asked forgiveness for not keeping my promise. May your soul rest in peace, Artur. May the children of this region enjoy a more peaceful future.