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.
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#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.

[@jackmitton2534]

Let's start here so you do not have to live in the casualties of war ignorance. Hamas was founded by Palestinian imam and activist Ahmed Yassin in 1987, after the outbreak of the First Intifada against the Israeli occupation. It emerged from his 1973 Mujama al-Islamiya Islamic charity affiliated with the Muslim Brotherhood.

[@modenadue7690]

Who ARE you replying to, @@jackmitton2534 ? And what is ACTUALLY the point you are trying to make?

[@woozyz2769]

Great but what does Israel have to do with Africa and Egypt? BBC Africa is very vocal of wars and conflicts OUTSIDE of Africa but not inside Africa. From Congo, to Sudan, Somalia, Ethiopia, all in war but I guess PaLeStInE is more important.

[@jackmitton2534]

@@woozyz2769 Thank you for recognizing the obvious - We all support the Palestinian Non-combatants - WE DO NOT SUPPORT HUMASS, The PLO and HUMASSES birther which is Egypt's Muslim Brotherhood - try to focus on arafat, the PLO and humass and the the king of jordan and iran and the ksa and egypt. they all say PLM! and sit back and do nothing. Answer it - you won't cuz you can't - Here is the easiest way to mitigate unnecessary deaths during this War: “No refugees in Jordan, no refugees in Egypt.” - Jordan’s King Abdullah II that above list does NOT SUPPORT Palestinian Non-combatants.

[@woozyz2769]

@@jackmitton2534 Saudi Arabia and Jordan are "pro Palestine" until their monarchies are at sake. Palestine and even Sudan have the potential to revitalize a new Arab Spring and we all know what happened in the previous Arab Spring that shook up north Africa. The Saudis and majority of the peninsula nations know that they have to do something when it comes to the narrative, it will look bad for them if they don't speak up as the entire Muslim world is watching this war. I did not know that Hamas and the Muslim brotherhood were connected so thanks for that info but it doesn't change the fact that African wars and conflicts are being completely ignored cause of western interests especially when it comes to resources and funded militias.

[@Just_logic]

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

[@1112viggo]

I don't know, i still only know him from talking about Palestine. Never seen his comedy, though i would if i got the chance, he seems like a funny guy.

[@Just_logic]

@@1112viggo he was very funny in Arabic. I used to watch him. He was a copy of John Stewart in Arabic. Egyptians are funny in general.

[@1112viggo]

@@Just_logic Hm interesting i used to love John Stewart so if he's anything like him i need to see his material. Did he have a show in English? He really needs to promote his show more, iv seen him in so many interviews and he almost never mentions it. I mean i respect him a lot for what he is doing, but i can't imagine its good for a comedian's career to tour different TV shows talking seriously about genocide. Ya know?

[@Just_logic]

@@1112viggo I believe he did. I am not sure if would be successful. Comedy tone is not that simple. Even he admits that English with an accent might have different response. But I am sure Arab America’s will be entertained. One thing he is very smart. Usually good comedians are very smart. They see little detailed other people don’t see.

[@zeemo7751]

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

[@AyshaA-ml2rd]

That was the best explanation of social media I’ve heard Bassem, we love you here ❤️

[@jackmitton2534]

Lets start here so you do not have to live in the casualties of war ignorance. Hamas was founded by Palestinian imam and activist Ahmed Yassin in 1987, after the outbreak of the First Intifada against the Israeli occupation. It emerged from his 1973 Mujama al-Islamiya Islamic charity affiliated with the Muslim Brotherhood.

[@darshansingh4375]

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

[@javed876]

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

[@todaywithoutname4964]

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.

[@nabiljemel2838]

the issue with rulers is that most of them are corrupt, they serve who ever finaced them to put them and keep them in power...

[@randafarhat7635]

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

[@HansCoche]

Like Omar Shariff 😁

[@TheMightyKingzuru]

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

[@celticali1]

Love Bassem Youssef man of integrity and truth.❤

[@aliradfar1060]

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

[@dr.manaralmomani8621]

Always creative, I wish you success

[@davidmurphy9974]

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 😄😮

[@tauqeerakbar2006]

Me too!!! ❤❤❤

[@TheTsexy1]

I’m African, and love the Irish ☘️.

[@doaamath1738]

Thank you so much. I am an Arab and love Ireland and Irish people so much. They are honest, brave, lovely and welcoming and have a rich, honorable history of struggle. Really, you must be proud.

[@ahmedsharif367]

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

[@Eyy7072]

A very fine human being

[@SaraSara-ti6ex]

Bassem, you are loved by the millions!

[@mohammadasadkhan2403]

The support of Bassem for Palestine cause is amazing.

[@CensoredFacts]

God bless you Bassam ❤ from Yemen 🇾🇪

[@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.

[@gabrielegagliardi3956]

Yep because the middle East is full of values when it comes to treat people fairly. Women are doing great in Iran or Saudi Arabia, where they cannot even go out without a guardian, work and are forced to wear a hijab even if they don't want to. What about workers in Qatar ? What about all the inequalities going on in nations with oil money ? This narrative west bad, all the rest of the world good is for the birds.

[@l.kurdistani]

@@gabrielegagliardi3956 you didn't mention the Kurds and their homeland, Kurdistan! The states of turkey iran iraq and syria have oppressed and murdered the Kurds since the 1920s.

[@AmrHussein1805]

@@gabrielegagliardi3956 we surely have our shortcomings and there is a lot to improve. But the west has much to improve also. “Western democracies” lecture everyone on human rights and the value they place on the individual. They lecture everybody on freedom of expression and the value of free press and they lecture everybody on democracy and equality under the law. But when we in our part of the world look, we see western democracies supporting the occupation of a settler colonial state that is committing heinous crimes against defenseless civilians for six months and they are doing nothing - ohhh let me correct that, they are actually providing bombs and fighter planes to kill more people. Western democracies that are supposedly secular are supporting a violent theocratic state that claims “God” had given them Palestine 3,000 years ago. Western democracies have been taken over by special interests, big business and lobbies.

[@selini52]

The “art”of propaganda

[@semsemeini7905]

Yes because there is a lot of love and humanity in the Muddle East and it is very peaceful.

[@crystalsharadin9772]

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

[@curious493]

It's a delight to see him succeed ❤

[@JenJams1]

Hes a man of the people ❤

[@biggim3265]

What is so likeable about Bassem is his honesty and wisdom which seems to have come from a lot of pain.

[@paladro]

great opening, excellent discussion.

[@bizzz.R]

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

[@nexusyang4832]

That is VERY high praise.

[@PP-cm8pw]

Baseem is the best ❤👍👍👍

[@sabrinayounisaden7238]

Because of bassem yussuf not fan of BBC

[@iftinaxmad781]

Hhhh 😂😂 no more interviews. I love egypt ❤❤ bassem youssef

[@Moyen88]

At the end he sent a message BBC AFRICA

[@fadhakintilerewa7509]

Mahn bassem is a genius, I wish he wasn't removed from casting superman

[@s.s.6170]

The amount of hate bots attacking him is hilarious. Blaming him for the expel of jews from Egypt 3000 years ago hahahaa

[@davetod9169]

The young lady did great job asking bassem questions. And actually i. Really enjoyed the interview. Thx. BBC..❤

[@monarehayem5263]

You are a genius talking about social media and how being involved with so many thought can effect us badly . We love you Bassem ❤ حبيبي بتجنن

[@tawfikabourakbah5412]

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

[@arifulhoqshanil33]

Happy Birthday 🎂 Bassem

[@Arateenteras]

Yes Having sense of humour in my family has saved our life’s , the tragedy and the raw reality are bearable through comedy. A good comedian has to be intelligent to make that twist.Oh they obviously have no need of lies 😅on the contrary. Thank you comedians for being there.

[@Connectingdots100]

Thank you Bassem, from the Arab spring to Gaza a very moral and funny man ❤️

[@caliskate658]

She did a great job....and Bassem was honest as usual....

[@deadwalking100]

I think the birthday cake was a really nice touch. A very wise man and interesting interview thank you team! Auntie BBC 👍

[@jamesmartin2533]

His best days are ahead, keep going brother.....don't doubt yourself, not even one step

[@phangmeng.]

Tony Stark = Bassam Youssof ❤

[@sallyrbeaan7512]

Great interview 👍 The host did a wonderful job with her direct and useful questions ❤

[@yacinegannouni860]

🔴 This is not BBC news They don't want to talk with him there

[@bobbymercer9789]

Youssef you’re a legend! May Allah protect you and your family Ameen!

[@John-uk7kf]

This man is amazing free free Palestine 🇵🇸 ❤

[@ShafiahBenaissa]

Bassem: sharp minded, is perseverant, grounded in reality, connected to his humanity, intelligent and a level-headed activist for human justice. We need more people like him in the world.

[@andyk6681]

Dude is a treasure..

[@AlsharifamahaAlfadel]

❤very nice

[@kadarabdullahi]

Happy birthday 🎉

[@MSalman1]

what a talent! Mashallah

[@saeedaosman3510]

Bassem charming and down to earth,best wishes from Kenya 🇰🇪

[@eddiehennessy2627]

Dublin linked with Britain careful Bassem 😂 you don’t want to upset us Irish

[@semsemeini7905]

Ireland linked with Spain, Belgium, Slovakia, Norway and South Africa.

[@eddiehennessy2627]

@@semsemeini7905 the link to Palestine was the same Brits terrorists (black n tans) who burned down Cork City as a reprisal in 1920 and collectively punish Irish civilians went over to Palestine in 1921 and continued the terror

[@MariaNI-yf1bz]

@@semsemeini7905 thats why we love Ireland ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@fahimanageeye4228]

❤❤

[@simba8665]

i like this interview

[@faisalis9110]

Thank you

[@Time_is_money43]

💯

[@WilliamWallace-sc9cx]

👏👏👏

[@greatcaledonianpenicillin5378]

Bassem is the man

[@jerem972]

Of course BBC refrain to ask Israeli comedians what they have to say.

[@muhammadbenjuraij7734]

We totally love this brother of ours❤

[@r4palestine]

😂😂😂😂 I watched the intro over and over. 😂😂😂😂

[@mojbr704]

♥

[@MohdArshad-nf9jh]

Why no subtitles?

[@saradapagediocletian9707]

Bassem is an amazing man.

[@neginfranco]

This Doctor is so loved so brave to tell the truth. Everyone agrees with what he says but don't have the bravery to say it.

[@argelmtz]

👏👏👏👏

[@rml9900]

Happy birthday, Bassem! We need more people like you in this horrible world!

[@user-bs2ui9pe9r]

Great coverage, thank you

[@Calvin_Nitro]

Wow… Bassem is indeed on a roll! Godspeed Mr. Youssef, keep fighting by being a voice for those who doesn’t have a voice and for those who actually have but just doesn’t care at all.

[@74aamer]

Love love love ❤❤❤❤

[@aylaun7475]

I missed this how? Anymore performances.

[@andersstook3273]

Bassem and many of his fellow comedians does a far better job asking questions about Israel than any of the MSM "journalists".

[@basrahg.250]

دكتور باسم يوسف أسطورة❤ شكرا لإستضافة دكتور باسم 🙌

[@tsurur]

This man also dances? So many talents to such a good person 🙏

[@user-zq9bw5lv6r]

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. 🇪🇬❤

[@no-brakes]

❤

[@Randomvideos-tt8nq]

All love bassem , u are awesome, intelligent, pure and white heart

[@stompthedragon4010]

One of the finest gentlemen on the planet.

[@danaplaczek9664]

I wish Mr. Youssef's family all of the best. Almost two months on from this interview, Rafah is now under brutal attack by the IOF.

[@Suleimanniyye]

Amazing guy!!!

[@Hajibaba500]

Damn bassem is eating good 👍 he hit the jackpot ever since the war started. My guy is in every podcast, news channel, comedy shows, interviews, etc and gained so many followers lmao get that money hustler

[@rastaman39]

Great man

[@AfricanDanceInternational]

he speaks better here than on flex friedman where he was tad bit feminine at times with his body lanugage and the outbursts of laughs - and i wish him blessings to laugh as much as possible, but i sensed just a bit of forcedness, which to me is totally unnecessary.

[@yassineadam]

❤❤❤❤❤

[@SaraSara-ti6ex]

Bassem, you are loved by millions

[@TaimazHavadar]

تو کارت درسته 👍🙏💚💚

[@nadk8886]

2:15 actually it's Kuwait 😂

[@alladdenelshiere6034]

I will miss his show in dublin.

[@eric0380]

The first scene was so realistic

[@stompthedragon4010]

Happy Birthday Bassem!

[@thatcandont]

I’ll give you tha’

[@beniluv3250]

Why no one asks him about FGM in Egypt?

[@GORO911]

Wtf does he has to do with that ? 😀

[@brillsmith2207]

why does he always remind me of Robin Williams

[@dinaramadan3416]

You are right! He does!

[@robr3512]

what about asking questions about hamas....

[@tauqeerakbar2006]

7:25 you are doing a fantastic job because others failed todo it.

[@Sifat_Rashid]

best muslim comedian

[@Karim-vt1xb]

Happy birthday Sir!

[@WorldWide-pc4gf]

What About Kous Kous?

[@ideas5663]

Bassem means " smiling"

[@v1any377]

I watched this because Bassam is featured in it!

[@raziazahid8449]

ALLAH BLESS YOU BROTHER