Erdogan Declares State of Emergency in Turkey for Three Months

Following the failed coup in Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the President of the country, declared a state of emergency for three months on Wednesday, July 30. According to the Associated Press, Erdogan stated in Ankara that Turkish citizens should not have the slightest concern regarding democracy, the rule of law, and the defense of freedom of expression and fundamental rights. The Turkish President emphasized that the aim of declaring the state of emergency is to quickly and effectively take all necessary measures to eliminate threats against democracy, the rule of law, and people's rights and freedoms. He stressed that as the Commander-in-Chief, he would implement the state of emergency order to cleanse all viruses within the armed forces. On Friday night, a number of military forces in Turkey attempted to seize power by overthrowing Erdogan's government, but the coup failed due to the presence of Erdogan's supporters in the streets. According to the Associated Press, Erdogan announced that 246 coup opponents were killed, and 24 coup plotters also lost their lives. Erdogan also stated in an interview with Al Jazeera that remnants of the coup plotters are still active and may take actions in the coming weeks. He added, 'I don't think this issue is over yet.' Reports indicate that following the coup's failure, the Turkish government has recently detained, suspended, or dismissed over 60,000 military personnel, teachers, and judges. Erdogan has accused Fethullah Gülen, a cleric living in Pennsylvania, of orchestrating the failed coup, a claim that Gülen denies. In this context, Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim announced that documents requesting Gülen's extradition to the United States have been sent. He added that Ankara has sent four files to the U.S. and requested Gülen's extradition, but the U.S. has stated that it will act based on the treaty between the two countries. Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, described the widespread suspension of judges and government employees in Turkey as a 'serious warning' and called on the Turkish government to allow independent observers to visit prisons and detainees. In this context, the consequences of the failed coup will complicate the West's relationship with Turkey. 99 generals and admirals of the Turkish army have officially been accused of 'attempting to carry out a coup.' Turkey has banned university professors from leaving the country. A phone conversation between Obama and Erdogan regarding Gülen's extradition took place.