Fadel Shaker Responds to Military Court's Release Decision

For the first time, artist Fadel Shaker commented on the Lebanese military court's decision to release him pending several ongoing cases. He extended his thanks to everyone who supported him during this period.

Shaker shared a message on his official account stating, "Praise be to God, Lord of the worlds. Today, new lines of freedom were written for me, and I am grateful to God first and to all who stood by me and supported me in my case."

He continued, "I hope you understand my health and family situation and grant me a short period to regain my strength and to check on my family," concluding with, "I promise to return to you soon, as you have been and remain the support and love I cherish."

The Lebanese military court had approved Shaker's release request on Wednesday regarding several cases under its consideration. This came after his health deteriorated, leading to his transfer to the military hospital following a medical episode, according to his media office. Lebanese media reported that his illness prevented him from attending his trial session.

The trial is ongoing before Military Court Judge Brigadier General Wasim Fayyad in the case known as the "Abra events," with the court continuing to hear witness testimonies related to incidents that occurred in June 2013.

Separately, the Beirut Criminal Court previously acquitted Fadel Shaker of the attempted murder charge against Sheikh Hilal Hammoud in Sidon in 2013. The court cited insufficient legal evidence, the absence of any confession from the defendants regarding the charge, contradictions in the plaintiff's statements, and his prior withdrawal of the lawsuit.