Egyptian actors to be quizzed over claims of ‘normalising’ relations with Israel

The Egyptian Actors’ Syndicate is to open an investigation into stars Khaled Abol Naga and Basma over claims of “normalisation with Israel”, the group’s head said yesterday.

Ashraf Zaki said the two actors are to be investigated “after appearing with an Israeli actress in an American drama series that is now broadcast on one of the American satellite channels.”

Abol Naga issued no comment on the matter; however Basma denied the claims saying: “The rumours about the nationality of the actor … are incorrect”, adding that she “is an American national and does not hold an Israeli nationality.”

Despite the signing of the Egypt-Israel peace agreement in 1979, trade unions and other entities continue to prohibit “normalisation” with Israel until the resolution of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.