On the night of July 15, 2016, Türkiye faced an unprecedented and perilous coup attempt to overthrow its democratically elected government that was orchestrated by the Fethullah Terrorist Organisation (FETÖ), led by Fethullah Gülen living in the US for more than 20 years. This has also proved by confessions and revelations from within the organisation through concrete evidences. On that dark night, as a result of the terrorist acts of FETÖ, 251 of our citizens were martyred and more than 2,000 citizens injured. State institutions, especially the Parliament and the Presidency, where the free will of the nation is embodied, were attacked by heavy weaponry.
FETÖ, is not only a terrorist network but also a “cult” espionage organisation that has cunningly operated under the guise of religious motives, masking its true intentions with a veneer of piety and educational initiatives.
Nevertheless, many individuals who have lost their will, mind and conscience towards FETÖ are still unable to accept this simple truth. This dark organisational structure and its manipulative, opportunistic and corrupt elements, who use all universal values for their own purposes, pose a danger to all societies.
In the past eight years, the fight against FETÖ both inside and outside Türkiye has constituted one of the main priorities of our country. In the aftermath, it became evident that FETÖ’s influence extended far beyond the coup plotters. In response, the Turkish government launched a comprehensive and multi-faceted campaign to bring down FETÖ’s network and bring those responsible to justice in compliance with the principles of the rule of law and fundamental rights and freedoms:
l Firstly, the perpetrators of the 15th of July coup attempt have been brought to justice on the basis of rule of law. Still several judicial processes are undergoing by relevant authorities and investigations have been carried about FETÖ in our country. We have also expended efforts to avoid grievances and established new mechanisms to examine and settle alleged grievances.
l FETÖ’s organisational structure within governmental institutions has been unveiled; administrative and judicial procedures have been initiated against its members and hence the “parallel state structure” has been brought down.
l Apart from those within the governmental institutions, FETÖ’s financial network was vast and complex, encompassing numerous businesses, media outlets, and charitable organisations. These entities were used not only to generate revenue but also to launder money and fund the organisation’s activities. After July 15, 2016, FETÖ’s attempts to spread across all areas of the economy via its shell entities, particularly in the education, media and banking sectors, have been thwarted inside Türkiye.
l Moreover, we have taken administrative measures and initiated legal proceedings to limit the manoeuvring space of the FETÖ terrorist organisation abroad and to prevent its members from transferring money and escaping justice. Within the scope of investigations conducted in Türkiye, we have requested the extradition and the freezing of the assets of FETÖ members from the countries where these persons are located and diplomatic efforts have been intensified to ensure that FETÖ operatives cannot find safe havens.
l In its effort to counteract the influence of FETÖ, Türkiye has established the Turkish Maarif Foundation (TMF), an organisation dedicated to providing quality education that aligns with Turkish values and educational standards. TMF schools have been set up globally to offer an alternative to FETÖ-affiliated institutions, which had long used education as a front for their subversive activities. In 52 countries with 467 educational institutions, TMF schools work to build trust and strong community ties, countering the misleading narratives propagated by FETÖ.
Qatar has been a steadfast ally in this endeavour, demonstrating solidarity with Türkiye in its fight against terrorism. The strong bilateral relations between our nations have been instrumental in addressing the FETÖ threat. Qatar’s support has been invaluable, reflecting a shared commitment to regional stability and security. This co-operation serves as a testament to the deep-rooted friendship and mutual trust that exist between our countries.
Türkiye will never forget that His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, the wise leader of Qatar, was the first Head of State to contact President Erdogan to offer his support on that critical night. A statement of condemnation was swiftly published by Doha to denounce and deplore the failed coup attempt and lawlessness on our streets. His Highness the Amir himself showcased his own humanity when he called for the respect of our people’s will. Furthermore, HE Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani, Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Qatar, was among the first foreign officials to visit Türkiye in the aftermath of this night.
Qatar’s unwavering support and solidarity stance with our people and leadership was clear for the world to see and proved to be a clear display of the strategic partnership — a precedent for diplomatic and fraternal relations. Such exemplary acts of solidarity have long served as a central element in Qatar and Türkiye’s enduring relations amid the most challenging times and demonstrated that Qatar is on the side of the right and the just.
As we commemorate the 8th Anniversary of July 15 Democracy and National Unity Day, we pay tribute to the martyrs and veterans who sacrificed their lives and well-being to defend our nation. Their heroism and dedication will never be forgotten, and their legacy continues to inspire us in our ongoing struggle for justice and democracy. I am heartened by the unwavering support of our Qatari brothers and sisters. Together, we stand united against terrorism in all its forms, working towards a safer and more just world.