A viral video circulating widely on social media has sparked intense discussion after showing a tense exchange between a Muslim man and a French youth over the use of an Islamic greeting. The clip, which has gone viral across multiple platforms, has divided public opinion, with users debating issues of cultural respect, personal choice, and the ethics of recording strangers for online content.
In the video, a man recording the interaction approaches a French boy and greets him with “Assalamu Alaikum,” a traditional Arabic phrase commonly used by Muslims that means “peace be upon you.” The customary response to the greeting is “Wa Alaikum Assalam.” However, the French youth is seen refusing to repeat the phrase, replying in French that he does not wish to say it.
Incredible video.
A muslim in France demands that a French guy says “Assalamu Aleikum” to the camera, even offering €4000 as a bribe.
The Frenchman refuses. “This is France. You should go to your country.”
This is the way. 🇫🇷🇫🇷🇫🇷 pic.twitter.com/yxIpQ0K7Tw
— 𝐍𝐢𝐨𝐡 𝐁𝐞𝐫𝐠 ♛ ✡︎ (@NiohBerg) December 17, 2025
The situation becomes more uncomfortable when the person filming pulls out a stack of cash and claims it amounts to 4,000 euros. He then offers the money to the French boy as an incentive to say the greeting. Despite the substantial sum being offered, the boy continues to refuse, appearing visibly annoyed by the persistent request.
As the exchange continues, the French youth makes a remark telling the man to “go back to your country,” a statement that has drawn particular attention online. When questioned whether everyone who uses the greeting “Assalamu Alaikum” should leave the country, the boy does not back down from his stance. The interaction ends without the money being accepted or the greeting being spoken.
The video has prompted a wave of reactions on social media. Some users applauded the French youth for standing his ground and refusing what they perceived as an attempt to manipulate him on camera. Supporters argued that no one should be pressured into saying something they are uncomfortable with, regardless of the amount of money involved.
On the other hand, many viewers criticized the boy’s comments, calling them offensive and disrespectful. Several users described the exchange as an example of open hostility toward another culture, while others said that even if he did not wish to say the greeting, his response could have been more polite.
Adding another layer to the debate, a section of social media users questioned whether the video was authentic. Some suggested that the encounter may have been staged, noting how quickly the cash was produced and how conveniently the confrontation unfolded. These users argued that such videos are often created to provoke outrage and boost online engagement.
As the clip continues to spread, it has become more than just a viral moment. The video has reignited broader conversations about cultural sensitivity, freedom of expression, and the growing trend of filming strangers without consent for social media views. Whether genuine or staged, the incident highlights how quickly a short video can escalate into a global debate in the digital age.
