Hassan El Shafie apologizes after performing a song for the Houthis at a party in the North Coast

The Egyptian musician Hassan El Shafie sparked widespread controversy after performing a segment of a song inspired by a Yemeni chant titled "Ma Nabali" during a concert in the North Coast, as this chant is associated with the Houthi group, which led to accusations of inciting violence.

In the wake of the criticism, El Shafie issued an apology clarifying that he was unaware of the text's association with any political entity, emphasizing that his aim was purely artistic to revive Yemeni and Arab heritage in a contemporary musical style.

He added that he decided to remove the segment from his official accounts, refusing to have his name linked to violence or political conflicts.

For its part, the Association of Authors and Composers confirmed that it would not take any action against El Shafie, stressing that he acted in good faith and that his focus is on presenting musical heritage in an innovative and modern spirit.