Yaşar İpek's social media posts result in a 3-year prison sentence

Social media posts made by singer Yaşar İpek to express his reaction to Israel's attacks have been brought to court. The verdict was announced at the final hearing in the Istanbul 21st Criminal Court of First Instance, as part of a case opened upon the complaint of the Chief Rabbinate Foundation of Turkey.

In the defense presented by İpek's lawyer, it was stated that his client did not target Jews living in Turkey.

The lawyer stated that the posts were a reaction to those who support Israel's actions and made the following statement:

"When my client said 'the first Jew he encounters,' he was not referring to a specific community within Turkish society. The crime requires the creation of fear among the general public. In the case of individual threats, different articles come into play. The posts were made as a reaction to the massacre by Israel. There is no threat directed at Jewish citizens in Turkey."

The lawyer also pointed out that his client made the post as an impulsive reaction due to his sensitivity regarding Gaza and requested an acquittal.

In his statement at the hearing, İpek said, "The incident occurred due to an outburst of anger. I had no intent to commit a crime; I request my acquittal." he said.

Following its deliberations, the court sentenced Yaşar İpek to 2 years in prison on charges of "threatening to create fear and panic among the public." Determining that the crime was committed through press and media channels, the court increased the sentence by half, resulting in a total of 3 years in prison.

On the other hand, the court acquitted İpek of the charge of "publicly inciting the people to hatred and hostility."

Speaking in a post shared on social media with his lawyer after the hearing, İpek reiterated that his target was the State of Israel and the Israeli army, stating the following:

"I made certain posts due to the genocide committed by the murderous Zionist Israel. A lawsuit was filed against me for this reason. This prison sentence will not take anything away from my humanity. I acted entirely out of humanitarian feelings. My opposition is against the Zionist State of Israel and its soldiers. I will continue to make these posts. I will serve whatever my sentence requires."

His lawyer criticized the outcome, emphasizing that his client was showing sensitivity toward Israel's attacks on civilians and children. Stating that they believe the verdict is erroneous, the lawyer expressed that they would appeal to the appellate court, adding, "I believe this erroneous decision will be overturned."

News Source: 12punto