The Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye in Kuwait organized the gathering at its Diwaniya Hall following a delay from the customary date because of a mourning period declared in Kuwait after the death of former Qatari Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. Members of the Turkish community residing in Kuwait joined representatives of the Kuwaiti Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the diplomatic corps accredited to the country and media outlets for the occasion, according to details released by the embassy. The program opened with a moment of silence and the singing of the Turkish national anthem to honor martyrs from the events of July 15, 2016, and all others who gave their lives for the nation. A recitation from the Holy Qur’an followed in the same spirit of remembrance.
Ambassador Tuba Nur Sönmez told those present that July 15 marked a historic turning point in which the Turkish nation stood firmly in defense of democracy, the national will and its independence. She noted that the courage, determination and sacrifices shown by the Turkish people during the coup attempt formed a powerful testament to the Republic of Türkiye’s unwavering commitment to democratic values, the embassy reported. The ambassador commemorated the martyrs of that night with respect, gratitude and mercy while expressing appreciation for the nation’s veterans.
A video presentation screened at the event detailed the sequence of the July 15, 2016, night and the civilian resistance that ultimately defeated the takeover bid. Turkish authorities place the number of people killed in the failed coup at 251 with more than 2,100 others injured, according to figures compiled by Anadolu Agency. Parliament designated the date as Democracy and National Unity Day in October 2016, turning the anniversary into an annual observance that underscores popular defense of elected institutions.
Kuwaiti Assistant Foreign Minister for Human Rights Sheikha Jawaher Ibrahim Al-Duaij Al-Sabah and Assistant Foreign Minister for International Organizations Affairs Sadeq Marafi attended alongside other ambassadors, diplomatic representatives and ministry officials. The broad participation reflected diplomatic ties between the two countries and the significance attached to the commemoration within the expatriate Turkish community. Embassy staff coordinated the full schedule to ensure a dignified tribute on the 10th anniversary.
Guests received servings of Ashoura at the conclusion, a traditional Turkish dessert that symbolizes unity, solidarity, togetherness and sharing in the culture. Organizers presented the offering as a reflection of the national unity the Turkish people displayed on the night of July 15, 2016, the embassy stated. The gesture brought the formal program to a close after the video screening and official remarks.
Similar events took place at Turkish missions around the world to mark the anniversary, following a pattern established after the 2016 events. The Turkish Communications Directorate has documented parallel ceremonies in previous years that likewise combined official speeches, religious observance and cultural symbols to reinforce the day’s meaning. Such coordinated activities continue to form a regular part of Türkiye’s diplomatic calendar on the designated holiday.
