Istanbul Unrest: LeMan Cartoon Sparks Controversy and Arrests, Alleged Insult to Prophet Muhammad

Unrest erupted in Istanbul following the publication of a cartoon in LeMan magazine, which authorities allege insulted the Prophet Muhammad. Police used rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse protesters. The chief prosecutor ordered the arrest of four magazine editors, including cartoonist Dogan Pehlevan. The controversial cartoon depicts two bearded, winged figures shaking hands amidst falling missiles, sparking outrage among religious conservatives. LeMan’s editor-in-chief, Tuncay Akgun, insists the image was misinterpreted, clarifying it was not a caricature of the Prophet but a depiction of a Muslim man killed in Israeli attacks. Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya condemned the cartoon and confirmed the arrests, while Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc stated that disrespect towards religious beliefs is unacceptable. LeMan magazine defended the cartoon, saying its intent was to highlight the suffering of the oppressed, not to offend religious values. The magazine, known for its political satire, has a history of controversy, including showing support for Charlie Hebdo after the 2015 attack.