Syrian Actor Sends Message to Sheikh Raed Salah, Receives Response

Syrian actor Abdel Hakim Qutifan, known for his extensive work in Arab television dramas, sent an audio message to Sheikh Raed Salah expressing admiration and respect. Qutifan, who has been imprisoned for ten years for his support of the Syrian revolution against the Assad regime, is also a vocal supporter of the Palestinian cause and Arab national issues.

The message was sent after the author of the article informed Qutifan that Sheikh Raed Salah had inquired about his health. Qutifan's response, initially a written message, escalated to a heartfelt audio recording. In the recording, Qutifan stated, "In the presence of honest men, honorable strugglers, those who are truthful with their Lord, themselves, and their people, silence, admiration, and pride are more eloquent than words." He conveyed his "greetings, pride, and respect to our great Sheikh, our steadfast struggler Sheikh Raed Salah," adding that his place in his heart and conscience is "very large."

Sheikh Raed Salah responded with a video message expressing his gratitude for Qutifan's words. He praised Qutifan's national stances in both artistic and political spheres. Qutifan is recognized in cultural circles for the significant price he paid for his bold positions against the Bashar al-Assad regime, including years of imprisonment and subsequent exile due to threats.

Qutifan explained his deep affection for Sheikh Raed Salah as a genuine feeling for a "national man who believes in his cause, a man who matches words with actions." He also reiterated his commitment to Syrian national unity, rejecting sectarian or inflammatory rhetoric and advocating for a democratic homeland for all Syrians. Qutifan considers his support for the Syrian revolution a defining and pure event in his life.