Obama asks Turkey to 'act within the rule of law'

US President Barack Obama on Saturday reaffirmed US’ “unwavering support” to the democratically-elected government of Turkey even as he called on the country’s leaders to respect “the rule of law” after a military coup attempt.

Obama’s message came after an update from his national security and broader foreign policy team on the situation in Turkey, the White House said.

The meeting was initially scheduled to be in Situation Room which was later changed to a conference call. During the conference call, President’s advisors apprised him of the most recent developments on the ground.

“The President reiterated the United States’ unwavering support for the democratically-elected, civilian Government of Turkey,” the White House said.

According to the read out, Obama instructed his team to continue to work with their Turkish counterparts to maintain the safety and well-being of diplomatic missions and personnel, US service members and their dependents.

“While we have no indications as of yet that Americans were killed or injured in the violence, the President and his team lamented the loss of life and registered the vital need for all parties in Turkey to act within the rule of law and to avoid actions that would lead to further violence or instability,” the White House said.

“The President also underscored the shared challenges that will require continued Turkish cooperation, including our joint efforts against terrorism,” the readout said, adding that Obama requested continued updates, as the situation warrants.