Ahmed Abdel Aziz Clarifies the Truth About the "Handshake Refusal" Video: "I Didn't Notice.. It Was a Misunderstanding"

Egyptian artist Ahmed Abdel Aziz topped social media after a clip surfaced showing him during the Egyptian-American Cinema and Arts Festival at the Opera House, where social media users shared footage that seemed to show him refusing to shake hands with a fan.

Abdel Aziz explained in a statement posted on his official "Facebook" page on Friday evening that the situation was "misunderstood," saying: "I was late to the event and hurried to catch the film screening, so I thought the young man was standing to clear the way as one of the organizers, and I didn't notice he was extending his hand for a handshake."

The artist confirmed that he did not intentionally ignore the young man, pointing out that the love of the audience is his "greatest support," adding:"What happened was a misunderstanding, and I hope people understand that in quick moments, things can be misinterpreted.. I am one of you."

The video sparked controversy among followers, with some criticizing him while others defended Abdel Aziz, attributing the matter to health or emergency circumstances. In a call with the "Al-Ashira" program on "Extra News" channel, the artist denied accusations of arrogance, saying: "I am a simple man, very simple and extremely humble, and no sane artist would be arrogant towards his audience or refuse to shake hands with anyone, and this is not my ethics or nature, I am a man from the country."

He concluded his remarks by affirming his support for the youth: "I am one of the supporters of the youth, and they will preserve the country, and Egypt will remain well and protected."

It is noteworthy that Abdel Aziz had previously spoken separately about the details of his participation in the film "Fahd the Hero," which has also recently topped social media.