Erdoğan marks July 15 anniversary, claims FETÖ 'eradicated'

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan commemorated the 10th anniversary of the July 15, 2016, coup attempt with a published article titled "July 15: The Declaration of Independence of the Turkish Century." He characterized the night as a pivotal moment where the nation defended its will, democracy, and independence against perceived "imperialists and their collaborators."

Erdoğan drew parallels between the resistance on July 15 and historical struggles, referencing the Battle of Manzikert in 1071 and the conquest of Istanbul in 1453. He stated that the nation's spirit on July 15 echoed the resolve of ancestors who fought for the homeland.

Recalling his call for citizens to take to the streets on that night, Erdoğan described it as a testament to his trust in the nation's "democratic common sense, insight, and courage." He asserted that the people responded instantly, embodying the spirit of "either independence or death," thereby shattering the "chains of tutelage and treason" and removing obstacles for Turkey.

During the events, Erdoğan noted that 253 citizens were martyred and over 2,000 were injured, emphasizing these figures as symbols of sacrifice, courage, and heroism in protecting the homeland, flag, and national will. He also claimed that the FETÖ terrorist organization has been "eradicated" from the state's institutions, stating that the fight against the group has been relentless both domestically and internationally over the past decade.