Turkish defense minister says July 15 spirit must guide future generations

Ankara ceremony

Turkish National Defense Minister Yasar Guler on Tuesday emphasized that the nation's obligation extends beyond mere remembrance of the July 15, 2016 defeated coup attempt, stressing instead the preservation of its spirit for coming generations. Addressing attendees at the ministry headquarters in Ankara during Democracy and National Unity Day ceremonies, Guler characterized the failed putsch as a direct assault on Türkiye's democratic order, national will and independence.

'Pass it on intact'

"Our real duty is to keep alive the spirit entrusted to us that night and pass it on intact to future generations," Guler said, framing the "terror-free Türkiye" initiative not merely as security policy but as a comprehensive national vision. He added that this vision aims to cement unity, eradicate terrorism and secure lasting peace and prosperity.

Hybrid threats

"Today, states face not only conventional threats but also terrorism, cyberattacks, disinformation, economic pressure and attempts to fuel social division," he noted. Guler stressed that national unity constitutes Türkiye's most robust defense against such challenges, while the Turkish Armed Forces have emerged stronger following the systematic removal of Fetullah Terrorist Organization (FETO) infiltrators.

NATO recognition

Guler pointed to the July 7-8 NATO defense ministers' summit hosted by Türkiye as evidence of Ankara's expanding strategic influence, noting that allied leaders specifically praised the Turkish military and its indigenous defense industry capabilities.