You are correct, they didn't directly kill people
But they sure played a role in starting the riot
Are you suggesting the press not report stories that might offend Muslims? Even stories as benign as a Koran being flushed down a toilet? We've had to tolerate seeing beheadings, Americans being shot on tape after having their helicopter hit with rockets, Americans being immolated and hung from bridges. Do we riot? NO. Because we are civilized.
Someone on an earlier thread likened it to
yelling fire in a crowded theater.