We were mistaken about Gülen movement, says President Erdoğan

“Look, if it was said 20 years ago, 15, 10 or even three-four years ago, believe me, I had not thought that much [about a coup attempt]. Unfortunately, we were seriously mistaken. May God forgive us,” Erdoğan said during an interview with private broadcaster ATV, referring to the alleged role of the movement in the failed coup attempt. 

The president also said the most ideal reaction to U.S. Central Command head Gen. Joseph Votel’s recent remarks on the detainment of officers in the country was to hand U.S.-based Islamic scholar Fethullah Gülen over to Turkey.

“They should immediately be taught their place… First, I am your strategic partner. Why do you not discuss with one of your respondents in Turkey?” Erdoğan asked, reiterating Ankara’s demand for the extradition of Gülen.

Votel had commented that some Turkish officers with whom the U.S. had relations were detained for their role in the attempted overthrow.        

Erdoğan had lashed out at Votel for his remarks but the Pentagon later said the general had been misunderstood.