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A Danish newspaper, Jyllands-Posten, printed a dozen images of the Prophet Mohammed. Among the most controversial include the prophet wearing a bomb shaped turban. The cartoons have offended many because any depiction of the Prophet, whether it be positive or not is considered a blasphemous act and is condemned by Islamic law. These images led to protests by offended Muslims throughout the Islamic world and sparked riots in Iraq, Afghanistan, Lebanon, the West Bank and Syria where the Norwegian Embassy was set on fire. Many Muslims have also decided to boycott Danish products as well. The Danish government stated that although they understand the anger the have cartoons sparked, they are also advocates of free speech and will not intervene in this matter and will not apologize for the newspaper. The US and the Vatican have made comments expressing their disapproval of the newspapers cartoon. The Vatican stated the the “[government can] and must, eventually, intervene according to the principals of the national legislation.” Various journalists in the European Union and in America stand by the values venerating free speech and have decided to continue to print cartoons advocating this right. U.N. Secretary General Kofi Annan also supports a free press but believes it should be exercised in a respectful manner. These interesting events have sparked debate across the globe. The complexity of this issue raises many difficult questions. Should freedom of expression be restricted for the sake of laws and respect? What do these events say about Eastern and Western culture? What are the limits of free speech?
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