Prophet Cartoon Sparks Uproar in Turkey, 3 Cartoonists Detained

Istanbul: A cartoon showing prophets Moses and Muhammad shaking hands has triggered major controversy in Turkey, leading to public outrage and the arrest of three cartoonists. The illustration, published in an independent satirical magazine, was swiftly criticized for being offensive to religious sentiments.

The Turkish government responded immediately. Police detained the three cartoonists involved in creating and publishing the artwork, citing charges of “inciting religious hatred” and “public disorder.” The cartoon was reportedly shared widely on social media before being taken down after backlash. Religious groups and conservative political figures condemned the depiction, calling it “blasphemous” and “deliberately provocative.” Protests erupted in several cities, with demonstrators demanding stricter laws against such representations of religious figures.

The controversy has drawn comparisons to the 2015 Charlie Hebdo attack in France, where gunmen killed 12 people, including several cartoonists, over similar cartoons of Prophet Muhammad. Many are now worried about growing polarization and violence over freedom of expression versus religious sensitivity.

Turkish officials, including President Erdoğan’s spokesperson, stated that “freedom of expression should not be used to insult faith,” and emphasized the need for responsible media. However, free speech advocates argue that arresting cartoonists is a dangerous precedent and stifles critical thought.

Meanwhile, international human rights organizations have urged the Turkish government to respect artistic freedom while also addressing public sentiments through peaceful dialogue. As the investigation continues, the magazine’s website has been temporarily shut down and its offices remain under police watch. The incident has reignited a long-standing global debate: where should the line be drawn between freedom of expression and religious respect?