Syrian wins Arab Idol contest, steers clear of politics
A young man from Syria's battle-ravaged city of Aleppo won the annual "Arab Idol" singing contest late on Saturday, then prayed to God to end calamities in his country.
Hazim Sharif steered clear of specific political references in interviews and Facebook messages after his victory, which was broadcast to millions of viewers across the Middle East.
People posted videos on social media which they said showed celebrations in the northern city of Aleppo, which is at the centre of a fierce battle between pro-government forces and insurgent groups.
In the government-held capital Damascus, people celebrated in restaurants and waved the Syrian national flag in the streets.
Unlike previous winners, the 21-year-old did not wave a flag to mark his win, but dedicated his performance in the Beirut venue to the Syrian people and his family.
