Khaberni -Syrian actor Bassem Yakhour stated that changing one's mind is necessary in life and is linked to a person's material, psychological, and geographical state, rejecting the term "distortion" and apologizing to every Syrian "hurt or pained" by his previous statements.
The protagonist of the series "Al Sabaa" explained in the program "Open to Controversy" on Al Arabiya channel, that change is needed in a person's life, linked to their circumstances, location, and human condition, emphasizing that changing one's opinion is neither a distortion nor a betrayal.
He also stated, "We live with lifelong friends and discover they are not trustworthy, so this change is neither distortion nor betrayal," indicating that changing one's opinion can result from "avoiding previous or subsequent pressure and is the right of any human being."
He continued, "Every human has the right to say what they want," adding "give people the right to express their opinions."
Return to Damascus
The Syrian artist discussed details of his return to Damascus, mentioning that he initially had fears but affirmed that it is his natural place because it is his country. He stated, "Power approaches artists, not the other way around," adding, "I met with political figures a few times, carrying requests for people, not for personal matters."
Yakhour continued, "All I own is from my work, and talk of privileges is baseless. There are recordings that confirm my opponents promoted these lies due to legal cases against them and my testimony against them in court."
Relationship with Maher al-Assad and a Threatening Message
Regarding his relationship with Maher al-Assad, the Syrian artist said, "My personal relationship with Maher al-Assad was not a means for intimidation or threat in the artistic community, I was serving those around me to help them."
He added that in the past four months, he was directly threatened with death and his family was subjected to a smear and harm campaign. "No one has the right to falsely accuse me just because they disagree with my opinion," he added.
The Night of Assad's Fall
Talking about the night of the fall of the Assad regime on December 8, 2024, he said, "I was very scared... and felt we were heading into the unknown."
He continued, "I convinced myself that we were awaiting overwhelming chaos," pointing out that previous experiences in the region suggest this idea.
Apology Message
The Syrian artist addressed a message to everyone "hurt by my words or my statements, I apologize to them, but please note, I was not responsible in the regime and I never did any kind of business with the regime nor did I hold any position, and I have been living outside the country for many years."
He added, "I had nothing to do with the previous regime except for what I stated, which are points of view, and today I say if I hurt anyone with these opinions, I address this message to any person hurt by my views."
Controversy and Criticisms
Earlier, the Syrian star caused a wave of controversy and sharp criticism against him with statements describing the situation in Syria as "bad."
In an interview via a "podcast" for the Lebanese newspaper "Al-Nahar" last January, he claimed that "many unhealthy and ugly things are currently happening inside Syria."
He also criticized the release of all prisoners, including thieves, rapists, and murderers, describing the scene as becoming like a "soup," according to him.
Regarding the "distortion" he was accused of by several Syrian actors after Assad's fall, Yakhour mentioned, "I do not see myself included in this situation because I did not benefit from the previous regime, despite all the talk about me." He stated, "I was expressing my viewpoint which at that time was in favor of the regime, but it caused me to be bullied and threatened with death sometimes."
It is noted that Yakhour graduated from the Higher Institute of Theatrical Arts in Syria in 1993, started his artistic career in the series Thraya in 1994, and then took part in a large number of TV works, presenting over 130 series ranging between dramatic, historical, and comedic genres.
He also starred in several Egyptian series, including Zahra and her Five Husbands and Al-Murafaqa, and has presented a number of television shows.
