Istanbul Under Siege: The 2016 Coup Attempt Revisited
On July 15, 2016, at approximately 19:30 GMT, a faction within the Turkish military attempted to overthrow President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s democratically elected government. This coup attempt unfolded dramatically, as tanks and fighter jets took to the skies, but within mere hours, the loyalist forces, supported by thousands of civilians, effectively countered the insurgents. The aftermath left over 250 dead and more than 2,200 injured, marking a significant turning point in Turkey’s political landscape.
The People’s Resistance Shines Through
The events of that night highlighted the resolve of the Turkish people and the military’s internal divisions. Retired Colonel Unal Atabay emphasized that the failed coup’s resistance was built on three pillars: the unwavering public opposition, loyal officers within the armed forces, and an inherent institutional reflex against such actions. This coalition of civic and military dedication played a crucial role in asserting control and thwarting the coup, demonstrating the strength of Turkish civil society.
Historically, military intervention in Turkish politics has been a recurrent theme. The military has played a role in ousting governments in 1960 and 1980, intervening in 1971, and forcing an elected government’s resignation in 1997. Although civilian governance returned following each event, the military maintained a powerful presence, often viewing itself as the guardian of the nation’s foundational principles. This perception diverged from the vision of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk and Ismet Inonu, who believed in keeping military and political domains separate, ensuring the military remained apolitical.
A Shift in Civil-Military Relations
Over the past decade, the dynamics between civilian authority and military command have shifted notably. The Justice and Development Party (AKP) began to emphasize reducing military influence even before the coup attempt. After 2002, increased civilian oversight became a priority, and the failed coup accelerated these changes. The Turkish government accused Fethullah Gülen, a U.S.-based scholar, of orchestrating the coup and proceeded to dismiss or arrest tens of thousands of military and civil personnel. Military structures underwent significant reorganization, with military academies being replaced and command hierarchies revamped to strengthen civilian control.
Atabay noted that the coup’s fallout has deeply transformed the relationship between the state, military, and society, leading to heightened vigilance against any external threats attempting to infiltrate state institutions. While some experts, like Howard Eissenstat, suggest that the probability of a conventional coup is low, concerns about the military’s evolving role continue to exist. The current consensus leans toward a state where direct military intervention seems less likely; however, the ramifications of the 2016 coup are still evident in contemporary politics.
The Ongoing Legacy of July 15
As Turkey marks ten years since the coup attempt, discussions surrounding the military’s role in governance persist. While significant steps have been taken to establish greater civilian oversight, questions loom regarding the health of Turkey’s democratic institutions. Political scientist Ali Carkoglu highlights the importance of institutional trust and competitive politics in maintaining a functional democracy. He warns that while greater civilian authority is an achievement, it shouldn’t compromise democratic principles.
The government has faced criticism for its handling of opposition politicians, with accusations that judicial proceedings are increasingly used to suppress dissent. Nonetheless, authorities reaffirm that these actions are independent of political influences. Human Rights Watch and various rights groups contend that the aftermath of the coup gave rise to an expansive crackdown on civil liberties, affecting not only those directly involved but also creating a chilling effect on broader civil society.
As of now, the Turkish government remains vigilant about the potential threats posed by groups linked to the events of 2016. Just days before the anniversary of the coup attempt, authorities launched operations across the nation targeting alleged FETO affiliates. This action reinforces the narrative that the events of July 2016 are still perceived as an ongoing national security concern rather than a historical incident to be left behind. The legacy of that fateful night continues to shape Turkey’s socio-political landscape as it seeks to navigate its future.