Turkish Embassy in US marks 8th anniversary of July 15 coup

The Turkish Embassy in Washington hosted a commemoration ceremony Wednesday to mark the eighth anniversary of the July 15, 2016 defeated coup attempt, gathering diplomats, lawmakers and community leaders to honor the 251 people killed in the assault on Türkiye's democratic institutions. The event began with a moment of silence and the Turkish national anthem, followed by a Quran recitation for the victims.

Ambassador Sedat Onal addressed the attendees, recalling that "Almost 10 years ago today, the treacherous terrorist organization, FETO, tried to topple the elected government." He noted that Türkiye has made "substantial progress" in dismantling the terror group, but added that "unfortunately," FETO maintains a presence in America and across the world. "But our fight, and our resolve to fight with them, continues," he said.

Officials vow continued counter-terror fight

Hulusi Akar, chairman of the Turkish Parliament's National Defense Committee, attended the ceremony during his visit to Washington for bilateral talks. He said the anniversary serves as a reminder of the heroes who resisted the putsch, stating: "The Turkish nation defeated not only the coup attempt but also terrorism." Akar emphasized that Ankara remains committed to achieving a "terror-free Türkiye."

Oussama Jammal, secretary-general of the US Council of Muslim Organizations, told the gathering he is "deeply honored" to stand with the Turkish people in remembering the victims.

US lawmakers convey support

Congressman Joe Wilson, co-chairman of the Congressional Caucus on US-Türkiye Relations, delivered a video message praising the "courage and resilience" of those who defended democratic institutions on July 15. He said the US and Türkiye share a "longstanding partnership" built on common security interests, adding that "US-Türkiye relations have a bright future."

Congressman Pete Sessions also marked the anniversary with a video message, according to the embassy. FETO and its US-based leader Fetullah Gulen orchestrated the July 15, 2016 coup attempt, which left 252 people dead and 2,734 wounded. Gulen died in October 2024 in Pennsylvania, with Ankara continuing to seek the extradition of remaining FETO members operating abroad.