Phrasing in Blinken's Anzac Day statement sparks outrage

The U.S. Department of State issued a statement for the April 25 Anzac Day, signed by Secretary Antony Blinken.

The statement read, "Their unwavering commitment to defending freedom and democracy is an enduring testament to the ideals we cherish."

Commenting on these words by Blinken, CHP deputy and former Washington Ambassador Namık Tan reacted to the expressions used, stating, "In the name of alliance solidarity with Australia and New Zealand, the U.S. statement referencing its solidarity with the ANZACs during the Gallipoli/Çanakkale battles reveals a lack of historical knowledge and a lack of common sense."

"A TYPICAL EXAMPLE OF PURE AMERICAN IGNORANCE"

Retired ambassador Faruk Loğoğlu also reacted to the phrase "unwavering commitment to defending freedom and democracy" shared regarding Anzac Day, saying, "It is a typical example of pure American ignorance. It is shameful, very shameful. They still haven't understood what happened at Gallipoli!"

U.S. SECRETARY OF STATE BLINKEN'S STATEMENT DATED APRIL 23 IS AS FOLLOWS:

On behalf of the United States, I am honored to commemorate ANZAC Day on April 25, 2024, alongside Australia and New Zealand.

Today, we respectfully honor the valor and sacrifices of the ANZAC forces who were symbols of courage during the Gallipoli Campaign. We also reflect on the debt of gratitude we all owe to our soldiers. Their unwavering commitment to defending freedom and democracy is an enduring testament to the ideals we cherish.

As we appreciate the sacrifices of the past and the unwavering commitment of our service members, we reaffirm the unbreakable bonds of friendship and partnership between our nations. From the trenches of the First World War to the challenges of today, the U.S., Australia, and New Zealand have stood shoulder to shoulder to defend shared values and principles.

This ANZAC Day, let us honor the legacy of our fallen heroes by rededicating ourselves to the pursuit of peace and prosperity.

WHAT IS ANZAC DAY?

April 25 is commemorated every year as Anzac Day to honor the members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) who lost their lives in conflicts abroad.

During the 1915 Gallipoli Campaign, in the Allied Powers' attempt to capture Istanbul, knock a key German ally out of the war, retake the peninsula, and open the route to the Black Sea, 8,709 Australian soldiers and 2,721 New Zealand soldiers lost their lives.

News Source: 12punto