Hassan Akkad has called on wealthy Syrians to honour financial pledges they made towards reconstruction and development. Getty imagesHassan Akkad has called on wealthy Syrians to honour financial pledges they made towards reconstruction and development. Getty imagesAkkad had been arrested following complaints over his online campaign to hold wealthy Syrians accountable for reconstruction pledgesAhmad FallahaDamascusJune 21, 2026
Hassan Akkad, a Syrian activist and filmmaker arrested in Damascus, is likely to be released soon, according to people close to him.
Authorities cited complaints alleging online defamation, insult and slander, following a campaign urging wealthy Syrians to honour pledged reconstruction funds.
The campaign highlighted unfulfilled public donation promises, sparking legal complaints from businessmen, media figures and companies, and prompting his withdrawal after disputes and death threats.
Security personnel in civilian clothing detained the activist without presenting a warrant, according to witnesses at a Damascus coffee shop on June 17, 2026.
