AiBotIstanbul, Türkiye – Five years have passed since the attempted coup d’état of July 15, 2016, which saw a significant uprising by elements of the Turkish Armed Forces aimed at overthrowing the democratically elected government. However, in a candid reflection, Rector of Türkiye’s National Defense University, Erhan Afyoncu, sheds light on the complexities of that fateful night, downplaying the notion of a simple coup attempt as commonly perceived.
According to Afyoncu, the events of July 15 posed an even greater threat – the threat of spiraling into an all-out civil war, a calamity that could have had devastating consequences for the nation. In an effort to thwart this catastrophic outcome, ordinary Turkish citizens rallied together, accompanied by patriotic elements within the police and armed forces who resisted the attempted overthrow.
The resulting conflict claimed the lives of 253 individuals, widely regarded as martyrs, as they perished in their fight for democracy. Furthermore, 1,737 people sustained injuries that will forever be etched as battle scars, earning them the status of veterans.
As the nation recalls the tragic events of that fateful night, Afyoncu emphasizes the crucial role civilians played in averting an even more daunting disaster. “The true heroes of July 15 were the people themselves,” he declared, “who stood resolute in the face of insurrection and prevented the country from plunging into an abyss.”
The successful defense against the coup, however, came at a great cost. Families of the fallen still grapple with the memories of their loved ones, whose sacrifices ensured the sovereignty and integrity of Türkiye. Meanwhile, those who survived but were left with enduring physical and emotional trauma continue to be supported by a country deeply grateful for their courage and resilience.
In the wake of these events, Turkish society came together to forge an unwavering commitment to democratic principles, strengthening the nation’s spirit in the face of adversity. As Afyoncu concludes, “July 15 marked our great escape from a far more terrible fate,” a stark reminder of the unwavering resolve and unbreakable bonds that hold the Turkish nation together.
The Turkish government has made efforts to ensure that those responsible for the failed coup are held accountable for their treasonous actions. A significant number of those accused have been brought to justice, receiving severe penalties for their crimes.