**Syria Frees Activist Hassan Akkad Days After Detention**
**Damascus, Syria** – British Syrian activist Hassan Akkad has been released from a prison in Damascus after being detained for four days. His arrest, which occurred on June 17, 2026, was reportedly due to allegations of criticism directed at public figures, specifically in the context of his fundraising efforts for Syria's reconstruction.
Akkad, known for his activism and filmmaking, was apprehended at approximately 9:45 PM local time while at a cafe in the al-Maliki neighborhood of the capital. His organization confirmed the details of his detention in a statement released shortly after his arrest.
The circumstances surrounding Akkad's detention stemmed from a legal complaint filed by Syrian journalist and presenter Mousa al-Omar. The complaint was reportedly linked to Akkad's social media activities and public comments, particularly his criticisms of al-Omar for not fulfilling financial pledges made during Akkad's donation campaign, titled "Give Us the Money That You Owe!" This initiative aims to track and encourage financial commitments from prominent figures to support the reconstruction of Syria.
Public Prosecutor Judge Hossam Khattab stated that Akkad had been detained due to warrants issued against him for failing to appear before the Cybercrime Control Division in response to al-Omar's complaint. Furthermore, Khattab indicated that additional plaintiffs had filed cases against Akkad for slander and defamation.
Akkad's release on June 21, 2026, was facilitated after al-Omar publicly announced that he had instructed his lawyer to withdraw the complaint against Akkad. In a post on social media platform X, al-Omar expressed his support for Akkad, stating that he had pardoned him for the sake of God and wished him success in his future endeavors. He also confirmed that all financial pledges made to the campaign had been fulfilled.
Hassan Akkad is not new to the challenges posed by the Syrian regime. He has previously faced imprisonment under President Bashar al-Assad's government for his role in documenting anti-government protests in 2011. After fleeing Syria, Akkad undertook a perilous 87-day journey across Europe, ultimately reaching the United Kingdom in September 2015. His experiences during this journey were featured in the BAFTA Award-winning documentary series "Exodus: Our Journey to Europe."
Akkad's activism continues to draw attention to the ongoing struggles faced by Syrians, particularly in the context of post-war reconstruction and the need for accountability from those in power. His recent detention and subsequent release highlight the precarious situation for activists in Syria, where freedom of expression remains heavily restricted.