Importance of unity
I read with interest the article “A day that changed Turkey” ( July 30) by Harun Yahya. It is true that the Turks showed exemplary unity in the face of the failed military coup attempt. It was not only the coup attempt that was unexpected. Truth be told, the public response was also not less surprising. The manner in which the Turks stood with their elected government showed that they are politically aware people who have matured enough to deal with all issues with their elected representatives in a democratic manner.
Events like the coup attempt and natural disasters sometimes serve as litmus test for a nation. These are the times when great nations cast aside their differences and work together against any internal or external threat.
The coup attempt may have failed but there is a lot of work to be done. Turkey under the leadership of the Justice and Development Party (AKP) has come a long way. The Turk’s opposition to the military coup should be seen as their acknowledgement of the ruling party’s efforts and an endorsement of its socioeconomic policies.
Foreign observers were under the wrong impression that since Erdogan was facing criticism at home for some of his domestic and foreign policies, the masses would not support him.
The Turks proved everybody wrong and stood with Erdogan at such a critical moment. However, the real work begins after the attempt. The Gulenists should also understand that their actions are not in the interest of the country. They should try to resolve matters amicably. This tug-of-war between the erstwhile allies may provide anti-Turkey forces with an opportunity to harm the country. past, the Palestinian Authority needs to take measures to address the problems of today to secure the future of its people. The current situation in the occupied territories does not allow such unnecessary adventures. The PA should make efforts to forge unity among the Palestinians. It is due to the divisions between the Palestinian factions that the Israeli forces are targeting innocent people with impunity. It is very easy to deal with a divided people but very difficult to confront a united house. As long as the Palestinians remain divided, they would continue to suffer at the hands of the Israelis.
As for the Balfour Declaration, it is a blot on the face of the so-called champions of democracy and human rights.
Osman Khan Sara Basheer