A mass brawl broke out between government-aligned and opposition lawmakers in Armenia’s National Assembly, forcing the suspension of a parliamentary session.

The confrontation reportedly began after sharp remarks by pro-government MP Taron Chakhoyan directed at the opposition, according to Sputnik Armenia.

A heated verbal exchange between Chakhoyan and Narek Karapetyan, head of the Strong Armenia parliamentary faction, subsequently escalated into a physical altercation.

Parliament Speaker Ruben Rubinyan initially refused to suspend the session despite the growing tensions.

“I will not announce a break. Decide for yourselves whether there will be a fight or not. I have no objection or you can disperse and take your seats,” Rubinyan said.

However, the situation deteriorated as lawmakers began using physical force, with one participant falling to the floor. The speaker was then forced to interrupt the session.

The confrontation did not end in the parliamentary chamber.

Clashes between lawmakers continued in the corridors of the National Assembly.