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Turkish authorities have launched a criminal investigation into the so-called Turkish satirical magazine Leman after it published a controversial cartoon that depicts the Prophet Muhammad, Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunc said Monday.
In a statement on social media, Tunc said the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office opened the probe under Article 216 of the Turkish Penal Code, which addresses “publicly insulting religious values.”
The cartoon, featured in the magazine’s June 26 issue, referenced the recent conflict between Israel and Iran and depicted the Prophet Muhammad and the Prophet Moses shaking hands above a bombed-out city.
The image quickly drew backlash online, with users accusing the magazine of insulting Islamic beliefs and demanding legal action.
According to social media videos, many protesters gathered in front of Leman's building on Istanbul's Istiklal Street. Some were seen attempting to break into Leman's office.
One social media user wrote, “Leman magazine has blatantly insulted our Prophet! This disgrace can never be considered freedom of expression!”
Another post said, “This vileness is neither humor nor free speech—it is outright provocation and a hate crime!”
Tunc condemned the publication, stating that “no freedom allows mocking a religion’s sacred values in such an offensive manner.” He added that “the caricaturization of our Prophet or any attempt to visually depict him not only insults our religious values but also harms social harmony.”
“Legal steps will be taken without delay against this provocative act that disregards the beliefs of millions of Muslims,” he said..
Leman, a magazine known for its provocative satire, has previously drawn criticism for controversial illustrations, including its portrayal of the 2016 coup attempt in Türkiye and religious figures such as the 13th-century poet and mystic Rumi.
Presidential Communications Director Fahrettin Altun condemned the publication of the cartoon, saying, “The Republic of Türkiye will not allow these reckless individuals who immorally attack the highest values of our nation any opportunity.”
Altun added, “This sick mentality will definitely be held accountable before the law.”
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced that D.P., the person who drew the cartoon of the Prophet Muhammad in the satirical magazine, has been taken into custody.
In a social media post, Yerlikaya said, “The despicable individual named D.P., who made this disgraceful drawing, has been caught and detained. I repeat once again, these shameless people will be held accountable before the law.”"
As part of the investigation initiated Monday, arrest warrants were issued for the cartoonist as well as two two editors-in-chief, and the the managing editor of the magazine.
Additionally, the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, which launched the investigation into the publication of the controversial cartoon, issued a recall order for the relevant issue of the magazine.
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