Bassem Youssef: 'Comedians don’t have solutions but we must ask questions about Israel' - BBC Africa

Comedian and political satirist, Bassem Youssef, speaks to the BBC’s Sharihan Al-Akhras about the role of comedy during times of war.

He also talks about managing insecurities and his relationship with social media. The interview was filmed as he embarks on his "Middle Beast" tour of the UK.

Produced by Kawoon Khamoosh and Anusha Kumar.



#bassemyoussef #comedy #politics #israel #palestine

[tammersalem]

I'm so happy that the world is starting to see the brilliance of Bassem Youssef the way we discovered his talents in Egypt in 2011.

[Just_logic]

Piers Morgan regretting interviewing him. Bassam is huge now. Mashallah.

[AyshaA-mlrd]

That was the best explanation of social media I’ve heard

Bassem, we love you here ❤️

[zeemo]

He is the example of laughter is the best medicine, talented individual.

[javed]

Love your perseverance. Go Bassem. Praying for your family's safety in Rafah.

[darshansingh]

I love Bassem ‘ s sincerity and humility. Praise to his talent and integrity.

[davidmurphy]

Damn, I wish I was in Dublin, my hometown. Love this man to bits. He's very welcome in Ireland. I know already what reception he'll get.
The Irish people love their Arab brothers, cherish honesty and truth.
I predict a raucous night 😄😮

[randafarhat]

This man is getting more handsome and charming as he gets older .

[todaywithoutname]

Bassem has become a superstar after trying to uphold justice for mankind. Someone like this should be highlighted over people who bring negative influence. Who would think that a comedian is smarter than most rulers around the world today. That's why I believe character does not determine someone's wisdom but the way of thinking that determines a person's wisdom.

[celticali]

Love Bassem Youssef man of integrity and truth.❤

[ahmedsharif]

BASSEM YUSUF IS DR ALL HE IS BASICALLY GOOD AT EVERYTHING DOCTOR, DANCER, COMEDIAN, POLITICS, TALKING PROFESSIONALLY AND AMAZING PERSONALITY

[aliradfar]

God Bless You Bassem for bringing Humanity and Smiles to our World. Your Positive Contribution is Felt and Appreciated by Tens of Millions of Loyal Supporters ❤. You are Loved by So Many

[crystalsharadin]

Bassem is awesome. Also, thanks for the reminder to not be in social media too much and to take breaks. Needed that😅

[DavidSaintloth]

I'm proud of this brother for taking the moment & making his art indistinguishable from his activism. As the world wakes up to the absurd hypocrisies of this globalized Western hegemonic society, apparent differences which form the basis of ongoing hatred and atrocity have a chance to be eliminated. The harbingers of change are uncomfortable conversations.

[mohammadasadkhan]

The support of Bassem for Palestine cause is amazing.

[SaraSara-tiex]

Bassem, you are loved by the millions!

[curious]

It's a delight to see him succeed ❤

[bizzz.R]

Been hooked to him speaking since Piers show. He reminds me of Dick Gregory. Very knowledgeable.

[TheMightyKingzuru]

Bassem's interview with Piers Morgan was the ultimate tipping point in his career.

[zqbwlvr]

Bassem Youssef, when we see you, we remember the words of the Egyptian revolutionary leader Mustafa Kamel, and And l quote, “If I were not Egyptian, I would wish I were Egyptian.” 🥺❤❤Thank you for communicating all these sounds in a way that the West finally understands it. 🇪🇬❤