U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken told a group of congressional lawmakers that his department is tracking the possibility that Azerbaijan could soon invade Armenia.

The U.S.-based Politico newspaper reports it was informed of Blinken’s remarks according to two people familiar with the conversation.

Politico writes that during an October 3 phone call, a group of Democratic Party lawmakers pressed Blinken on possible measures against Aliyev in response to his country’s invasion of the Nagorno-Karabakh region in September.

According to Politico, the lawmakers included Reps. Nancy Pelosi and Anna Eshoo of California, and Frank Pallone of New Jersey.

Blinken responded that the State Department was looking at avenues to hold Azerbaijan accountable and isn’t planning to renew a long-standing waiver that allows the U.S. to provide military assistance to Baku.

Blinken added that his department saw a possibility that Azerbaijan would invade southern Armenia in the coming weeks.

The U.S. State Department declined to comment on the call but emphasized the department’s commitment to “Armenia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity” and resolving conflict through “direct talks.”

Responding to a query made by the Armenian service of the Voice of America (VOA) regarding Politico’s article, the U.S. State Department said: “The United States continues to cooperate with the leaders of Azerbaijan and Armenia at the highest levels, striving for a dignified and lasting peace in which the rights of all are respected. The use of force is unacceptable, and direct dialogue is important for the settlement of this long-standing conflict," the State Department's response stated.

The U.S. State Department, according to the VOA, said: "The US supports the efforts of the Armenian government to help displaced people find shelter and comfort in Armenia in close cooperation with humanitarian organizations. We extend our sympathies to the displaced, recognizing the shock and trauma they are going through and the uncertainty they are facing."

The State Department added that Baku has a responsibility to protect civilians and ensure the humane treatment of all, including those it suspects of involvement in hostilities.