Türkiye Commemorates 2016 coup attempt with renewed pledge for justice

English , Middle East - مشرق وسطٰی , Snippets , / Tuesday, July 15th, 2025

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Sources Anadolu Agency

ISTANBUL – Türkiye on Tuesday observed the ninth anniversary of the July 15, 2016, coup attempt carried out by the Fetullah Terrorist Organization (FETO), reaffirming national unity and its unwavering determination to bring those responsible to justice.
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan is leading commemorative events in Ankara, as the nation marks Democracy and National Unity Day, a solemn occasion to honor the 252 citizens who lost their lives and over 2,700 others who were injured while defending democratic institutions.
Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz shared a message recalling how millions responded to President Erdoğan’s call, standing up against the coup plotters to safeguard the will of the nation. “We honor our martyrs and veterans with deep respect and reaffirm our promise to carry forward their legacy under the vision of the ‘Century of Türkiye’,” he wrote on social media platform X.
Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan also posted a message underscoring the strength of the Turkish people. “The coup was defeated by the foresight of our President and the determination of our citizens. Those aligned with foreign intelligence underestimated Türkiye’s resolve for freedom and justice,” he stated.
Fidan stressed that the government continues to track FETO members across the world and is committed to ensuring they face accountability in courts of law.
Türkiye’s Communications Director Burhanettin Duran described the July 15 resistance as a defining moment of bravery in Turkish history. “We will never forget the martyrs and veterans who stood in defense of democracy. Though we can never fully repay our debt to them, we are determined to advance reforms that honor their sacrifice,” he said.
The 2016 attempted coup remains a significant national trauma, but also a symbol of resilience. Türkiye reiterates its commitment to defending democratic institutions and maintaining internal security against all threats.