Muslim scholars slam FETO to mark July 15 anniversary

Leading Muslim scholars Saturday condemned Fetullah Terror Organization (FETO) and its activities around the world to mark the first anniversary of defeated coup attempt in Turkey.

"July 15 is not a milestone just for Turkey but also for the entire Muslim world. Yet, this set an example of how determined efforts and resolutions overcome the attempt to annihilate the social peace and democracy," the Istanbul-based International Muslim Scholars Association said in a statement.

It said that the defeated coup attempt was driven by "fitna (affliction) and oppression".

"On the first anniversary of this betrayal, we once again condemn the FETO terror network, which disguises itself as religious community," the statement added.

FETO and its U.S.-based leader Fetullah Gulen orchestrated the defeated coup of July 15, 2016, which left 250 people martyred and nearly 2,200 injured.

Ankara also accuses FETO of being behind a long-running campaign to overthrow the state through the infiltration of Turkish institutions, particularly the military, police, and judiciary.