"Turkish Journalist Faced Threat with Altered Image Placed on a Canine: Identity Exposed"
Intimidation Attempt Against Turkish Journalist Fatih Altaylī
Published on May 25th, 2025 - 05:22 GMT
A veteran Turkish journalist, Fatih Altaylı, has alleged an intimidation attempt following a public endorsement of Israeli-Turkish singer Linet. Widely known for his candid commentary in print and television media, Altaylı has been a prominent figure in Turkish journalism.
Shortly after expressing support for Linet, whose performance was controversially canceled due to her Israeli heritage, Altaylı encountered an alleged threat close to his home in Şişli, Istanbul. A group displayed a sign stating, "Don't commit crimes: Walk your dogs with leashes and muzzles," next to Altaylı's residence. While the sign appeared to be about pet ownership restrictions, Altaylı believes it was a concealed threat.
The sign was displayed under the pretense of enforcing Law No. 5199, which prohibits walking dogs without a leash or muzzle. However, Altaylı asserted on social media that the true intention was to intimidate him, noting that he has evidence to support his criminal complaint. The Istanbul Police are currently reviewing the situation.
Altaylı's action follows a pattern of threats and harassment faced by journalists in Turkey, including his contemporary who encountered a similar incident. In a previous case, the same journalist's image was displayed on a dog's body in Şişli, Istanbul, as part of an intimidation attempt.
Such incidents highlight the challenges to freedom of speech and the safety of journalists in Turkey. Journalists voicing dissenting opinions can face intimidation, leading to a chilling effect on free expression.
Altaylı emphasized that the issue was not animal laws but rather the use of intimidation to suppress opposing views under the guise of civic duty.
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- In the realm of Turkish politics, Fatih Altaylı, a veteran journalist known for his candid commentary on culture and general-news, has faced an intimidation attempt.
- This incident follows a pattern of threats and harassment against journalists in Turkey, as Altaylı's case bears a striking resemblance to that of his contemporary who was also subjected to intimidation.
- News of Altaylı's alleged intimidation is another indication of the challenges faced by journalists in Turkey, particularly those who voice dissenting opinions, which may lead to a chilling effect on free expression.
- The business community and human rights organizations worldwide are closely watching the progress of Altaylı's criminal complaint against the alleged intimidation, hoping it will set a precedent for ensuring the safety and freedom of journalists.
- The controversy surrounding Altaylı's support for Israeli-Turkish singer Linet has not only sparked debates in the realm of politics and culture, but also shed light on the complexities of freedom of speech and the risk journalists face when expressing their opinions.
