Türkiye marks the anniversary of the failed coup attempt now observed as Democracy and National Unity Day. Across the country, people gathered to honour those who gave their lives defending the nation on the 15 July 2016.
Martyrs Memorial Day, known in Türkiye as Democracy and National Unity Day — marked the ninth year since the 2016 failed coup attempt. Across the country, particularly in Istanbul and Ankara, thousands gathered to honour the martyrs and heroes who sacrificed their lives defending their country.
Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev sent a message to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, expressing solidarity and support.
What happened on 15 July 2016
A large faction within the Turkish Armed Forces, led by exiled Turkish citizen Fetullah Gülen, tried to seize control of the country and overthrow the democratically elected government.
As the night unfolded, tanks rolled into the streets of major cities like Istanbul and Ankara.
Bridges were blocked, fighter jets flew low over urban centres, and key sites such as the Turkish Parliament, police headquarters, and presidential palace were attacked.
Media outlets were also targeted. At TRT, Türkiye's national broadcaster news channel, coup plotters forced a presenter to read a pre-written statement declaring martial law.
But then came a turning point.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, appeared live via FaceTime on CNN Türk and urged citizens to take to the streets and defend their country.
Millions of civilians responded, risking their lives, standing in front of and on top of tanks, disarming soldiers, and confronting the coup directly. Unarmed and determined, people mobilised to defend the nation.
By dawn, the coup attempt had failed. However, the cost was heavy. More than 250 people were killed, and more than 2,000 were wounded. They are remembered today as the martyrs of the 15th of July.
Since then, every 15 July is marked with ceremonies, prayers, and public gatherings across the country. Each year, civilians visit the 15 July Martyrs' Monument in Istanbul and other memorial sites to pay their respects.
Today, Türkiye stands united once more — honouring its martyrs, defending its democracy, and remembering the night when people rose to protect their nation.
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