Prominent Egyptian actor Hussein Fahmi has submitted his resignation as United Nations Goodwill Ambassador in protest of the UN's inaction to halt the Israeli aggression against innocent civilians in Lebanon, especially the most recent heart wrenching Qana bombings that kill over 60 civilians, mostly women and children.
In an official press release Hussein said, "I cannot carry on as a Goodwill Ambassador to an institution that is incapable of making any difference in a country that is under siege," as a result of ongoing Israeli strikes.
The actor said, "As an Arab artist, it is inappropriate to hold such a position at this time."
"If a small nation cannot seek the assistance of the UN, who can they turn to?," questioned Hussein. He also said the UN mistakenly characterizes the Israeli aggression as "self-defense."
He called on powerful nations like Russia and France to take a stand against the United States, which has yet to insist on a ceasefire, and described most Arab nations as mere spectators to the tragedy.
Hussein described the Arab League as ineffective, and if these countries and the UN remain silent then the massacres of innocent Lebanese will only continue, he said.
A few months ago an Egyptian court sentenced Hussein to six months in prison, and a fine of 500 Egyptian pounds for swearing at two police officers. Two officers stopped Hussein's vehicle on a Cairo street, and when the officers tried to question Hussein, he began swearing at them.
Hussein paid the fine and has appealed the verdict, hoping to avoid serving the jail sentence.
Hussein's latest television drama, “Muwatin Bi Rutbit Wazeer” (A Citizen with the Rank of a Minister), was written by Yasr Al Siawi and directed by Adel Al Asser. Hussein plays a duel role in the drama of twin brothers who are complete opposites, one honest and the other corrupt.
