Latest news with #FETO
Daily Tribune
5 days ago
- Politics
- Daily Tribune
15 July Democracy and National Unity Day: Türkiye, the Name of Victory
By H.E. Dr. Ayşe Hilal Sayan Koytak Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye Nine years ago today, the Republic of Türkiye experienced one of the darkest nights in its history; yet the same night also became etched in history as one of the Turkish nation's most heroic struggles. Today, in order to be more effective in the global fight against terrorism, it is essential to understand the nature of this treacherous coup attempt and the nationwide mobilization the Turkish people mounted to thwart it. The Fethullahist Terrorist Organization (FETO), which had infiltrated the vital organs of the state for years in pursuit of its sinister agenda, launched a bloody coup attempt through its members embedded in the Turkish Armed Forces on the night of July 15, 2016, directly targeting the survival of our Republic, our constitutional order, and our democracy. It has been revealed by confessions and revelations from within the organization that the July 15 coup attempt was organized by FETO. These individuals, having infiltrated the Turkish Armed Forces over many years, targeted key state institutions in an unprecedented display of violence. Blinded by fanaticism, members of this terrorist organization went as far as bombing the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye, the Presidential Complex, the National Intelligence Organization headquarters, and the Police Special Operations Center in Ankara. As a result, 251 of our citizens were martyred, and more than two thousand were wounded and became veterans. This heinous coup attempt has gone down in history as not only Türkiye's but also one of the vilest attacks faced by modern democracies. Thanks to the resolute leadership of our President, His Excellency Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, the courage of Turkish people, and the sacrifices of loyal officers of Turkish Armed Forces and Security Forces, this attack was repelled. The Turkish nation demonstrated an unyielding will to uphold democracy even at the cost of their lives. The coup attempt revealed the extent of FETO's deep infiltration into the state apparatus. The crimes committed on the night of July 15th can be considered as the tip of the iceberg. The organization's strategy began decades earlier, through the establishment of schools and preparatory academies designed to indoctrinate students under the guise of education. Young people were trained to become loyal operatives, disregarding ethics, law, and democratic principles in favor of allegiance to the organization's leadership. Many gained entries into government institutions through illicit means, including the theft of exam questions. They were ordered to stay hidden and to infiltrate state institutions. Individuals who stood in the organization's way were removed through schemes and false allegations. As the organization gained influence and wealth, it began interfering in commercial dealings, engaging in large-scale money laundering, and routinely committing various financial crimes. Once the Turkish government grasped the true nature of these activities, FETO resorted to increasingly radical and aggressive tactics. The first major incident occurred in December 2013, when the group released a series of alleged recordings and falsified documents. Although this initial attack failed to achieve its goals, it served as a turning point for both the government and the public. With the uncovering of their covert communication tools (such as bylock, eagle, and tango etc) and the interception of their internal messages, efforts were launched to counter the group's operations and expose the depth of its infiltration and the damage it had inflicted. In short, FETO leveraged state resources to build an extensive economic and political network, creating a covert structure even within the Turkish Armed Forces. The events of July 15 starkly illustrated how dangerous this organization had become. July 15, Democracy and National Unity Day, marks not only the thwarting of a coup attempt but also the sacred victory of public will and democracy. It stands as an unwavering response to the enemies of democracy. That night, the Turkish people resisted tanks, jets, and guns with nothing but their bare hands and hearts, defending their free will, future, flag, and Republic. Over the past nine years since this treacherous coup attempt, Türkiye has waged a determined struggle against FETO without compromising the rule of law, in line with its Constitution and international obligations. The Turkish government has taken comprehensive legal, administrative, and economic measures to remove the group's presence from public institutions and civil society. Domestically, these efforts have focused on three key areas: holding coup perpetrators accountable in the courts, purging FETO's organizational structure from government institutions, and disrupting the group's activities in fields like education, media, and finance. Every element of FETO that had infiltrated public institutions has been carefully identified, brought to justice, and the organization's societal, economic, and international networks have been dismantled. During this process, the solidarity shown by friendly and brotherly countries has left a deep and lasting mark on the hearts of the Turkish people. In particular, the visit of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, who became the first leader from the Gulf region and the Arab world to visit Türkiye following the July 15 events, remains for us an unforgettable example of solidarity and brotherhood. That meaningful visit is etched in our memories as one of the strongest symbols of the close friendship and shared values between our two countries. With this rare gesture of solidarity, His Majesty King Hamad won the hearts of the entire Turkish nation. On this occasion, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to His Majesty King Hamad and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and the people of Bahrain for their unwavering solidarity in all circumstances. The fight against FETO remains one of the most critical pillars of our national security. Thanks to effective efforts, FETO's operational capacity has been largely neutralized not only within Türkiye but also abroad. However, the organization continues its efforts to survive through its networks overseas and operates under the guise of legitimate institutions in various countries. These structures exploit fields such as education, culture, civil society, and humanitarian aid and in fact serve as strategic tools to maintain FETO's global influence. Combating such organizations, which pose a threat to the future of democratic societies, is not only Türkiye's responsibility but a shared duty of the entire international community. After all, terrorism knows no language, religion, race, or geography. This dark network, which exploits all the universal values respected by humanity for its own agenda, constitutes a security threat to every country and society where it operates. In this regard, cooperation with friendly and allied nations is of vital importance. As Türkiye, we engage in close dialogue with our counterparts in countries where FETO is active and strive to build a shared awareness of the threat posed by this terrorist organization. Important steps have already been taken in this struggle, including the closure and transfer of FETO-linked schools to the Turkish Maarif Foundation, the extradition of FETO members, and the initiation of judicial processes. Various countries and international organizations have declared FETO as a terrorist organization. In this context, FETO was declared as a terrorist organization in the 43rd session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the OIC held on 19 October 2016; a similar resolution was written at the Asian Parliamentary Assembly on 1 December 2016 and ratified at the 12th Conference of the Parliamentary Union of the OIC on 27 January 2017. In addition to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, the Supreme Court of Pakistan declared FETO a terrorist organization with the verdict rendered on 28 December 2018. The death of FETO ringleader Fethullah Gülen on October 20, 2024, in the United States, without standing trial, has not led us to complacency. Our determination to fight FETO will continue unwaveringly until this treacherous organization is completely eradicated. One of our key responsibilities in this fight is undoubtedly to explain to the world the legitimacy of our struggle. FETO still manages to infiltrate societies abroad and poison especially young minds with distorted narratives based on manufactured victimhood. On the ninth anniversary of July 15, Democracy and National Unity Day, we remember with mercy, gratitude, and respect all our martyrs and heroes who fought for this cause, and we extend our heartfelt appreciation to our veterans. We once again reaffirm our unwavering stance against any structure or mentality that seeks to undermine our democracy, our Republic, and the unity of our nation.
Qatar Tribune
5 days ago
- Politics
- Qatar Tribune
Turkiye and Qatar enjoy robust ties: Turkish envoy
Ashraf Siddiqui Doha Ambassador of the Republic of Turkiye HE Dr Mustafa Goksu has said Turkiye and Qatar enjoy robust ties grounded in mutual trust and solidarity. Speaking at a press conference on Monday, the Turkish ambassador underscored Turkiye's gratitude for Qatar's unwavering support and reaffirmed both nations' shared commitment to peace, stability, and cooperation. The Turkish Embassy in Qatar is commemorating the ninth anniversary of Türkiye's resolute defense of its democracy on Tuesday. He expressed his deep gratitude to the Turkish people for their unwavering commitment to upholding the country's democratic institutions in the face of the failed coup attempt on July 15, 2016. He said that night Turkiye faced an unprecedented threat when the Fethullah Terrorist Organization (FETO) sought to topple its democratically elected government through violence, attacking critical institutions and targeting civilians. The coup was defeated through the resolute stand of unarmed citizens, leaving 251 dead and over 2000 injured, and demonstrating an extraordinary commitment to constitutional order. Ambassador Goksu expressed his gratitude to the leadership of Qatar on its principled and timely support exemplified by His Highness the Amir of the State of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani who was the first leader to call President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. page 2
Qatar Tribune
5 days ago
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
Turkish embassy to marks 9 yrs of democratic resilience against coup bid
Ashraf Siddiqui Doha The Turkish Embassy in Qatar is set to commemorate the ninth anniversary of Turkiye's resolute defence of its democracy on July 15, 2025. Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Ambassador of Turkiye to Qatar HE Dr Mustafa Goksu expressed his deep gratitude to the Turkish people for their unwavering commitment to upholding the country's democratic institutions in the face of the failed coup attempt on July 15, 2016. He said that on July 15, 2016 night, Türkiye faced an unprecedented threat when the Fethullah Terrorist Organization (FETO) sought to topple its democratically elected government through violence, attacking critical institutions and targeting coup was defeated through the resolute stand of unarmed citizens, leaving 251 dead and over 2,000 injured, and demonstrating an extraordinary commitment to constitutional order. Ambassador Goksu emphasised Turkiye's continued fight against FETO, whose global network and clandestine methods threaten democratic governance worldwide. Expressing his gratitude to the leadership of Qatar for its principled and timely support, exemplified by the Amir of Qatar His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani being the first leader to call President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, he saidthat it remains deeply valued. He added that today, Turkiye and Qatar enjoy robust ties grounded in mutual trust and solidarity. Despite facing the challenges of attempted coups, natural disasters, and global crises, Türkiye has strengthened its democracy, economy, and international standing, the Ambassador said, underscoring Türkiye's gratitude for Qatar's unwavering support and reaffirming both nations' shared commitment to peace, stability, and cooperation. Dr Goksu highlighted the country's progress and noted that Türkiye remains a leading global tourist destination with nearly 62 million visitors in 2024. Emphasising security, he recalled decisive action against terrorism through operations in Syria, contributing to regional stability. He outlined major infrastructure achievements, including the Eurasia Tunnel, 1915 Çanakkale Bridge, and investments in renewable energy. He also detailed the rise of Türkiye's defence industry, now over 80 percent domestically produced, with advanced projects such as Bayraktar UAVs, the TCG Anadolu assault ship, and the KAAN fighter jet. The envoy pointed to a transformative foreign policy focused on sovereignty, security, and strategic autonomy, balancing ties with NATO and the EU while expanding partnerships in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Türkiye's humanitarian leadership was underscored by its status as the world's largest per capita donor and its value-based foreign policy that prioritises human dignity, he stressed. Goksu also emphasised Turkiye's active diplomacy and mediation efforts—from facilitating peace talks between Somalia and Ethiopia to brokering the Black Sea Grain Initiative in the Russia–Ukraine conflict. He reaffirmed that Turkiye will continue to support stability in Libya, Syria, Sudan, Afghanistan, and Gaza through humanitarian aid and diplomatic engagement. He noted Turkiye's role as an energy hub, its vast diplomatic network, and its commitment to multilateralism, innovation, and cultural diplomacy, reinforcing its position as a responsible and influential global actor.
Kuwait Times
5 days ago
- Politics
- Kuwait Times
The name of victory is Turkiye — Remembering July 15
The name of victory is Turkiye — Remembering July 15 By Tuba Nur Sonmez Nine years ago, on the night of July 15, 2016, the people of Türkiye witnessed a betrayal that tested not only the strength of their institutions but the very soul of their nation. It was a night when tanks blocked roads, helicopters rained bullets on civilians, and the Parliament was bombed by heinous elements from within the military. But it was also a night that gave birth to one of the most extraordinary moments of collective courage and unity in modern Turkish history. The attempted coup was orchestrated by members of the Fetullahist Terrorist Organization (FETO), a clandestine network that had operated for decades under the guise of religious devotion and educational service. Led by Fetullah Gulen, a cleric residing in the United States, FETO systematically infiltrated key institutions of the Turkish state—including the military, judiciary, police, and civil service—through unlawful methods such as exam fraud, blackmail, and covert loyalty structures. Exploiting the trust of devout citizens, the organization disguised itself as a benevolent religious movement, gaining influence particularly among youth through schools, exam preparation centers, societal meetings, and various other mechanisms. Behind this outward image, however, lay a sinister agenda. But on the night of July 15, their intentions and ambitions were buried by the people's will. What occurred on July 15 was not just a military mutiny. It was a carefully planned internal assault on the democratic order, executed with precision and malice. Fighter jets bombed strategic buildings in Ankara. Armed soldiers opened fire on civilians standing in protest. An attempt was made to assassinate the President. Media outlets were raided to silence free press. The aim was clear: to replace the rule of law with the rule of a cult. To this day, many in Turkiye—especially in Ankara and Istanbul—remember the sound of plotter jets overhead, recognizing it as the sound of betrayal. And yet, what was meant to paralyze the nation resulted in just the opposite. With no hesitation and with no weapons in hand, millions of ordinary citizens filled the streets in cities and towns across the country. They defied curfews and the gunfire of the usurpers. They stood in front of tanks and reclaimed their sovereignty. Across ideological and political lines, the people of Türkiye stood united in their defense of democracy. That unity became the most powerful weapon against the plotters. By morning, it was clear that the coup had failed, but at a heavy cost—252 lives lost, over 2,200 injured, buildings destroyed. Yet Türkiye did not descend into chaos. The state responded swiftly and within legal bounds. A long-overdue reckoning with FETO began, and those responsible were brought to justice. The group's networks in education, media, and finance were dismantled, while public institutions were reformed to restore transparency. Compromised security structures were restructured to align with national interests. In the years since the coup attempt, Türkiye has made significant strides in consolidating political stability, reducing foreign dependency, and adopting a more assertive and self-reliant foreign policy. The trauma of July 15 catalyzed a shift not only in governance, but also in public consciousness. Citizens today are more aware of the importance of civic responsibility, of remaining vigilant against anti-democratic threats such as this vile coup attempt. It is important for the international community to understand the nature of what transpired on that night. FETO is not merely a Turkish issue. It is a transnational threat that operates through soft power tactics—schools, NGOs, media networks—and exploits the very democratic freedoms it seeks to destroy. Just as terrorism takes many forms, so too must democratic societies be alert to non-traditional, covert threats that seek to undermine them from within. Every year on July 15, Türkiye marks Democracy and National Unity Day—a time not only to remember the lives lost, but also to reflect on the strength of its democratic will. That night reminded the nation that democracy is not merely a system of institutions, but a living commitment between state and citizen. It can be attacked, but when defended with unity and resolve, it can endure and grow stronger. The memory of that night remains vivid, not only as a moment of sorrow but as a symbol of collective courage. Ordinary people did not wait to be protected by democracy; they rose to protect it themselves. Faced with a choice between oppression and freedom, the nation chose democracy. Nine years on, Türkiye stands stronger. The spirit of July 15 is not something of the past, as long as that spirit lives, no darkness will be strong enough to cast shadows to Turkish people's will. We can say proudly that 'The Name of Victory is Türkiye.' We remember our martyrs with gratitude, and honor our veterans with pride. May Allah preserve our unity, protect our democracy, and keep our nation strong. Note: Tuba Nur Sonmez is Ambassador of the Republic of Turkiye to Kuwait
United News of India
08-07-2025
- Politics
- United News of India
National strike unnecessary, politically motivated, says FETO
Thiruvananthapuram, July 8 (UNI) Terming it politically motivated and unnecessary, the Federation of Employees and Teachers Organisations (FETO) has urged employees to reject the strike announced by left-leaning service organisations in Kerala in support of the national strike called by a few trade unions on July 9. "The primary demand of the strike is the withdrawal of the four new labour codes. However, the modernisation of outdated labour laws is a longstanding and common demand of the working class," FETO Kerala General Secretary J. Mahadevan said today. "The Wage Code and the Social Security Code, in particular, are historically significant and highly beneficial to workers. Despite 44 labour laws being consolidated into four codes, the trade unions calling for the strike have not clearly stated which specific provision they oppose," the FETO leader pointed out. Before these codes were passed in Parliament, the Union Labour Ministry held several rounds of discussions with trade unions and employer organisations at the national, state, and sectoral levels, he clarified. The FETO state committee noted that the current strike is merely a continuation of an annual ritualistic protest lacking genuine purpose, he said. When it comes to government employees, the central government has been providing dearness allowance and implementing pay revisions consistently, he added. "In contrast, the Left government in Kerala, which came to power promising to withdraw the contributory pension scheme, has not fulfilled that promise. Moreover, it has withheld several entitlements such as dearness allowance, leave surrender, and other benefits," he charged. "The pay revision that was due to be implemented from July 1, 2014, has been delayed by over a year. If the left-aligned service organisations in Kerala are sincere, they should be protesting against the denial of these benefits by the Left government," he said. FETO also demanded that the administration and the police ensure the safety and travel facilities of employees who choose to reject the strike and report for duty. This was stated in a joint press release by FETO State President A.J. Srini, General Secretary J. Mahadevan, and State Treasurer C.K. Jayaprasad. UNI DS ARN
