Media and Law Studies Association (MLSA) reacted against the detention of LeMan magazine employees and the attack against the magazine building. MLSA Co-Director Veysel Ok stated that the detentions and ill-treatment on the grounds of the cartoon were unlawful and said, “We call on the authorities to take steps to protect freedom of expression.” Ok emphasized that LeMan’s drawing is a non-violent, peaceful form of expression.
The Human Rights Association (İHD), Contemporary Lawyers Association (ÇHD) and Istanbul Medical Chamber (İTO) also reacted to the ill-treatment during the detention. İHD stated that the detention footage is evidence of torture, while ÇHD said that reverse handcuffs and dragging on the ground should be considered as torture.
Following the investigation against LeMan magazine on charges of “insulting religious values”, BTK blocked access to the magazine’s website. On the same day, the magazine’s office in Beyoğlu was attacked with stones and sticks by Islamist groups. Journalists and citizens were also affected.
The controversial cartoon satirizes the destruction in the Middle East, with two figures greeting each other by saying “Salaam Alaikum” and “Alahem Shalom”. The Justice Minister and the Interior Minister targeted the cartoon and defended the investigation and detentions.
Rights organizations stated that they will follow the legal processes and freedom of expression.
July 01, 2025
MLSA