Turkey Investigates Leman Magazine Over Prophet Cartoon Amid Istanbul Protests; Six Detained Including Cartoonist Doğan Pehlevan

Turkish authorities have launched a judicial investigation into the satirical magazine Leman following the publication of a controversial cartoon depicting Prophet Muhammad and Moses shaking hands above a bombed city. The cartoon, published in Leman's June 26, 2025 issue, sparked widespread outrage across Turkey, including mass protests in Istanbul and condemnation from government officials. The Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç stated that disrespect towards religious beliefs is unacceptable and that no freedom justifies offensive depictions of sacred figures. Six individuals associated with Leman, including cartoonist Doğan Pehlevan, two general editors, a responsible editor, a graphic artist, and a company executive, have been subjected to detention orders, with four already arrested.

Pehlevan defended the cartoon as a message of peace rather than an insult. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan condemned the cartoon as an unacceptable provocation and vowed legal accountability, also criticizing opposition leader Özgür Özel for defending the magazine. The Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office is also investigating potential financial crimes and foreign funding linked to Leman. In response to the controversy, Leman's website and social media accounts were blocked by Turkish authorities. The case has drawn attention to tensions between freedom of expression and religious sensitivities in Turkey, with government officials labeling the cartoon a hate crime disguised as humor. Protests in Istanbul saw clashes between demonstrators and police, who used pepper spray and tear gas to disperse crowds. The investigation and arrests continue as the government pursues legal action against those involved.