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Heated Discussion... Bassam Yakhour Breaks His Silence... and Fares Helou Responds
Syrian actor Bassam Yakhour has sparked widespread controversy on social media platforms after making his first public stance regarding the fall of the previous regime and the takeover of the country by armed opposition factions.
Unlike many of his colleagues, Yakhour did not deny his previous pro-Assad positions, nor did he express support for the new administration. He voiced his fears about returning to his country amid a lack of security stability.
In his statements, Yakhour mentioned that he had delayed announcing his position on the political changes to gain a clearer perspective. He noted that his return to Syria depends on security stability, expressing concerns about potential negative or unexpected reactions.
Syrian bloggers circulated video clips of his interview with the Lebanese newspaper "An-Nahar," which elicited mixed reactions, particularly given the divisions within the Syrian artistic community between supporters and opponents of the previous regime.
During the interview, Yakhour clarified that he did not benefit from the previous regime and refused to accept any housing assistance from it. He confirmed that he has lived many years outside Syria since 2011, achieving his artistic success through personal effort and skills, rather than through external support. He also stated that he lost important job opportunities with production companies that are considered oppositional to the previous regime and faced veiled threats from the regime to harm him and his family if he continued to call for the release of Syrian detainees.
Yakhour criticized the term "taqwi‘,” considering it reflects a “lack of decency” and harms the millions of Syrians who were forced by circumstances or personal choices to support the previous regime or remain silent regarding the opposition.
In conclusion, Bassam Yakhour made it clear that he chose his peace of mind during the years of crisis, as he was able to visit his country and meet his family, including attending his father's funeral two years ago, unlike some opposing artists who were unable to return to Syria.
Following the spread of the video, Syrian artist Fares Helou commented, stating: "Nayla Tueni dedicated ten minutes of airtime to her guest to personally attack me!! Claiming that I posted a fiery response to him after the head of the regime fled... the response stated: I found out why the refugees had 16 children?"
"I advise you, failed media personality, along with your guest, to consult for free from the Syrian Revolution Platform 'Taqarrar' before adopting any news."
