The Targets Of Erdogan's Purge

Tens of thousands of people have attended a pro-democracy rally in Istanbul's Taksim Square to condemn Turkey's attempted coup. Organised by opposition party CHP, the event was also backed by Erdogan's AK party in a rare show of unity. Although the CHP leader claimed the failed coup was a victory for democracy, he also warned about the dangers of authoritarianism.

Since the coup, Erdogan has launched a widespread crackdown with thousands of people arrested or losing their jobs. According to the BBC, these include 21,000 teachers who have had their licenses revoked, 15,200 education ministry officials who have lost their jobs and at least 7,500 soldiers who have been detained. Around 250 people were killed when elements of the military deployed tanks, fighter jets and helicopters in a bid to overthrow Erdogan's government.