I was thinking the govt pulled the plug on the internet, not the coup -- for the very same reason that it would be much easier for the govt to do it than a coup. Also, was thinking that a coup would use it to rally support. But I don't know.
I can't say I'm shocked at the apparent coup attempt, given Erdogan's Islamic proclivities and the military's long tradition of supporting secularism, but the possibility of internal strife is a real worry. As was mentioned earlier, it is damn near impossible to prevent the free flow of information these days, unless you're the PRC. We'll have to wait for events to unfold and hope that violence is kept to a minimum.
I'm hearing on the news that Erdogan is on the air on private television stations. If this is a coup it doesn't appear very organized likely doesn't include all of the military. My own opinion is while I'm no fan of Erdogan this coup seems like a bad idea. I was very impressed with Turkey's economic progress and this will hurt it at a time when there are a lot of other issues. Even though the people behind the coup are likely secular and opposed to further Islamicization of Turkey I doubt Europe is comfortable with a potential member where the government came to power by coup.
Some Reuter's headlines: EU source says Turkey coup bid looks substantial, 'not just a few colonels' All flights from Istanbul's Ataturk airport canceled: Reuters witness Turkey army says it has seized power; PM says elected government still in charge Wary Mideast states warn of Pokemon GO security dangers
According to the military tonight's action will 'reinstall the constitutional order, democracy, human rights and freedoms, to ensure that the rule of law once again reigns in the country, for the law and order to be reinstated'. The military statement went on to say that 'all international agreements and commitments will remain. We pledge that good relations with all world countries will continue'. Let's hope Erdogan steps aside for the good of his country and countrymen. Calling for citizens to fight is so irresponsible.
I actually agree with you (are you shocked?), but would prefer that it was by an election. Erdogan was/is a danger to his country, in my opinion.
Go military. Erdogan would NEVER leave due to an election. This is the right way, and only way to get rid of him.
Its not irresponsible to ask the public..if it was a real democracy that was in jeopardy. If it was An explosion now in the national tv station in ankara. Now a general of the first batallion says that its not done by them.
I agree with Deck. It's sad to see that a country like Turkey that was close to being a first world country is resorting to coups rather than change through the ballot box.
Just heard that the military is saying that all international treaties and agreements will be honored. I'm guessing they are going to go out of their way to calm international concerns. Also this coup might not have any thing do with Turkey reestablishing relations with Israel.
Not a big fan or Erdogan. But, even less of a fan of military coups. Win or lose, just having the coup is bad news.
I would be happy to see Erdogan gone, but any action taken, or not taken, by the judicial system will have to await events. This is not over.
I wonder if this go round will more likely provoke insurgencies with Kurds or whatever other sects or groups in or near Turkey.
Analyst here says that till one hour ago everything seemed like th e the military coup lwould prevail easilly but after erdogan appeared and then giul things changed a lot. They retook the airport and they try to retake the bosphorus b ridges. But the army started shooting. Now there is some wounded in the bridges. I wouldnt be surprised if erdogan wins.
