Fethullah Gülen, a prominent U.S.-based Islamic cleric known for inspiring a global social movement and facing accusations of masterminding a failed 2016 coup in Turkey, has passed away at his home in Saylorsburg, Pennsylvania. The Turkish Foreign Minister confirmed his death, evidencing widespread rumors.
Gülen, in his eighties, had long been in ill health and lived in self-exile for the last decades of his life. He was a proponent of Sufism and advocated for democracy, education, science, and interfaith dialogue. Although initially an ally of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Gülen later became a critic, leading to a publicized falling out.
Accusations of Gülen orchestrating the failed coup in 2016 led to a crackdown on his movement in Turkey, with tens of thousands arrested or dismissed from their jobs. Gülen strongly denied involvement in the coup and termed the actions of the Turkish government as a witch hunt.
Born in Turkey, Gülen earned millions of followers globally with his teachings that merged Islam with Western values and Turkish nationalism. Despite suspicions and allegations of setting up a parallel state, Gülen remained in the United States since 1999 and fought against extradition to Turkey.
Gülen lived a reclusive life, primarily focused on prayer and meditation. His movement, Hizmet, established a global network of charitable foundations, educational institutions, and media organizations. The future leadership of Gülen’s movement remains uncertain following his death.
The controversial legacy of Fethullah Gülen highlights the complex relationship between religion and politics, with his influence stretching far beyond the borders of his home country.
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