Fetullah Gulen, Leader of FETO, reportedly dies in Pennsylvania

Gulen, who has resided in the United States for many years, allegedly passed away after being admitted to a hospital.

Herkul, a website closely linked to FETO, released a statement on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on October 20, confirming the death. The post read: “Today (Oct. 20), Fetullah Gulen has passed away.”

Gulen’s health had reportedly deteriorated in recent months, with reports suggesting he suffered from kidney failure, diabetes, and dementia. He was last seen publicly on October 12, 2024, being transported from his residence after being evacuated from his Pennsylvania farm, where he had lived since 1999.

Fetullah Gulen and his organization, FETO, are widely recognized for orchestrating the failed coup attempt in Türkiye on July 15, 2016. The group is accused of operating covertly for decades, infiltrating key Turkish institutions, including the judiciary and military, with the aim of establishing a new political, economic, and social order that contradicts traditional Islamic principles and undermines Türkiye's sovereignty.

FETO’s illicit activities have been well-documented and include blackmail, espionage, money laundering, and even assassination plots. The group has been banned in numerous countries, and its affiliated schools and institutions have been shut down or transferred to the Turkish government’s Maarif Foundation. As of July 2023, 48 countries have closed FETO-affiliated schools, and many of its members have been deported.

International recognition of FETO as a terrorist organization has grown, with the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) adopting resolutions to that effect. In Pakistan, the Supreme Court ruled that FETO-affiliated organizations are in violation of the Pakistani Constitution, leading to a ban on their activities.

Gulen’s reported death marks a significant moment for Türkiye and its continued efforts to dismantle FETO and bring those responsible for the 2016 coup attempt to justice. The Turkish government, which has long sought Gulen’s extradition, views his organization as one of the most significant threats to the country’s stability and democratic institutions. (ILKHA)