Lebanese Singer Fadel Shaker Released on bail as 2013 clashes probe continues
Lebanese authorities have released former pop star Fadel Shaker on bail as investigations continue into his alleged involvement in deadly clashes between Sunni militants and the Lebanese army in 2013.
Shaker, who surrendered to military intelligence in October 2025 after spending 12 years in hiding, paid bail of 500 mln Lebanese pounds (about $5,500) and was released while awaiting a retrial on charges including membership of an armed group, money laundering and alleged involvement in the Sidon clashes.
The singer was originally sentenced in absentia to 22 years in prison in 2020 for supporting a militant group. Under Lebanese law, that conviction was vacated following his surrender, allowing a new trial to begin. Shaker has denied participating in the 2013 fighting, which killed 18 Lebanese soldiers, although prosecutors continue to investigate the case.
Once one of the Arab world’s most popular singers, Shaker shocked fans by abandoning his music career and aligning himself with hardline cleric Ahmed al-Assir. Despite years in hiding, he continued releasing music, including several songs that gained widespread attention across the region.
