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Qatar Museums is gearing up to launch its latest Fire Station exhibition, titled "Rust and Art," on Wednesday, Sept 24. The highly anticipated exhibition offers visitors a unique opportunity to discover a rich artistic journey of experimentation and innovation by artist Ahmed al-Hamar. The exhibition will run until Oct 25 at the Fire Station -Gallery 4.Al-Hamar’s practice centres on materiality, texture, and layering. He works with elements drawn from daily life, reinterpreting them into minimal artistic compositions.Natural dyes, rust formation, organic matter, and found objects are recurring mediums that weave through his work, reflecting his fascination with transformation and process.Al-Hamar is a Qatari artist with a bachelor’s in art education from Qatar university. He is also a member of the Qatar Fine Arts Society since 1997. His art started with realism, but later embraced an abstract, intuitive mode of working, using non-traditional art materials like fabrics, rust, and natural dyes in his paintings. He participated in many art exhibitions inside and outside Qatar including “Louhat Deeratna” 2018 as well as “50x50” exhibition at Katara Art Center 2019. During his residency, al-Hamar focused on experimenting with techniques and materials, often revisiting the same mediums to uncover new outcomes.In his series "Between Rust and Art", he explores cultural motifs by deliberately inducing rust on iron sheets a natural process interrupted and reshaped by his intervention. The resulting works highlight the tension between decay and preservation, evoking a dialogue between past and present, tradition, and reinterpretation.**media[359962]**The exhibition will be open for families, children, schools, and researchers. For further details visit https://qm.org.qa/en/calendar/ahmad-al-hamar-between-rust-and-art/The exhibition also allows visitors to interact directly with the artistic experience, observing the effects of time and natural materials on the artworks. This makes each visit a unique experience with a personal touch for each viewer.

A delegation from the Qatari Sheikh Hamad Award for Translation and International Understanding, participated in an academic symposium titled "The Reality and Challenges of the Translation Movement between Arabic and Chinese" which was held on Sept 18 at Beijing Foreign Studies University.The symposium was also attended by representatives from the Qatari embassy in China, and a group of experts and academics from several Chinese universities. Research institutions, and publishing institutions participated in the symposium, including Peking University, the University of International Business and Economics, the Beijing Language and Culture University, Guangzhou University, Ningxia University, and Beijing Foreign Studies University. The participants exchanged views and ideas on issues of cultural exchange and translation between China and the Arab world.In his opening remarks, Professor Liu Xinlu, Vice President of Beijing Foreign Studies University, noted that the university's College of Arabic Language, as the main implementing agency of the Belt and Road China-Arab Friendship Library Project launched in 2016, has completed numerous translations of classic works between Chinese and Arabic. Thus, making it an important platform for promoting cultural exchange and rapprochement between peoples. He emphasized that in light of the complexities and fluctuations of today's global situation, dialogue between civilizations has become more urgent than ever, with language as a bridge and translation as a means gaining critical importance in promoting mutual understanding between different civilizations.Abdulrahman al-Marri, representative of the Sheikh Hamad Award for Translation and International Understanding, expressed his great appreciation for the importance of this symposium. He explained that the award aims to promote the values of pluralism and openness, and to support dialogue and understanding between civilizations, and has already become the most influential award in the field of translation in the Arab world.He also expressed his hope that this symposium would provide an opportunity to deepen cooperation between Chinese and Arab researchers in the fields of translation and culture, and expressed his aspiration to enhance exchange and cooperation with the Beijing Foreign Studies University.The symposium's proceedings covered two main themes: "Translation and Introduction of Chinese and Arabic Classics" and "Translation and Chinese and Arab Civilizations." The researchers discussed the history, reality, and challenges of the mutual translation of classical literary and cultural works between the two sides from various perspectives.They also addressed the role of translation in supporting educational development, intellectual convergence, and cultural progress, by discussing issues of teaching Arabic translation, Sino-Arab cultural exchange, and the role of education support funds. The symposium witnessed the participation of more than 100 Arabic language professors and students from several universities in Beijing.It is worth noting that the Sheikh Hamad Award for Translation and International Understanding aims to consolidate the values of pluralism and openness, encourage knowledge and dialogue, promote international understanding, and advance the level of translation between Arabic and other languages. It also honours translators, cultural institutions, and publishing houses that have made outstanding contributions to promoting friendship and co-operation between the Arab peoples and the peoples of the world. Professor Xu Qingguo (Bassam) of Beijing Foreign Studies University is the first Chinese scholar to receive this award. The award committee has announced that it will again award the prize to translators working in the field of Chinese-Arabic translation in 2026.

The delegation from the Sheikh Hamad Award for Translation and International Understanding has left for an official visit to the People's Republic of China from September 16 to 25, 2025, following the adoption of Chinese as one of the languages of the 2026 edition of the award.This visit aims to strengthen the presence of the award in the Chinese academic and cultural scene and open new horizons for cooperation with universities, research centers, and cultural institutions in China. It also seeks to highlight the role of translation as a bridge for cultural communication and consolidate the award's position as a leading international platform for translation and understanding between peoples.The first phase of the visit to the capital, Beijing, includes a diverse programme combining academic and cultural activities. The delegation will meet with a group of translators and academics working in the field of translation, including previous Chinese winners from the 2018 and 2021 editions, which honoured the Chinese language.The visit will also include tours of prominent academic and cultural institutions in the field of translation and Arabic studies, such as the Confucian Studies Association, Peking University, and the University of Languages and Culture. The delegation will also explore ancient cultural landmarks, including the Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China.However, the highlight will be the academic conference to be held at the Beijing Foreign Studies University on September 18, titled "The Reality and Challenges of the Arabic-Chinese Translation Movement." This symposium is of exceptional importance as it is the first event of its kind to be held in China on the Arabic-Chinese translation movement organised by a non-Chinese institution, making it a global cultural precedent that reflects the award's pioneering role as an international platform for dialogue and cultural communication.During the second stop, the delegation will travel to Shanghai, where it will meet with a number of translators and institutions working in the field of cultural exchange between Arabic and Chinese, as well as publishing houses interested in publishing translations from and into Arabic. An academic meeting will also be held with professors and students from the Shanghai International Studies University to discuss the challenges facing the Arabic-Chinese translation movement and explore ways to develop and advance it.

The Qatar Press Center (QPC), in co-operation with the Media Development Department of the Qatar Media Corporation (QMC), concluded the “Political Analysis for Media Professionals” course, which was held from August 31-September 3 at the Center’s headquarters.The course was attended by a select group of media professionals and journalists from various local media outlets. The course was presented by Professor Abdullah al-Shaiji, Professor of Political Science at Kuwait University, who shared his extensive academic and practical experience in interpreting the regional and international political landscape and analysing current issues in an in-depth and objective perspective. At the conclusion of the course, Abdullah bin Haji al-Sulaiti, vice-chairman of the Board of Directors of the QPC, distributed certificates to the participants. He also presented a certificate of thanks and appreciation to the lecturer, Professor Abdullah al-Shaiji, in recognition of his efforts and contributions to the success of the training programme. Sadiq Mohammed al-Ammari, director general of the QPC, expressed his happiness with the fruitful co-operation with the QMC in organising the fourth part of the political analysis course. He emphasised that this partnership comes within the framework of the Center’s commitment to providing the media arena with quality programmes that enhance skills and keep pace with current developments. The director general emphasised that the course attracted an elite group of media professionals and journalists from various media institutions, praising their interaction, which gave a practical dimension to the training experience. The director general emphasised that co-operation with the QMC will expand in the coming period to include the launch of more specialised courses and workshops aimed at providing media professionals with the knowledge and skills that keep pace with the rapid changes in the media and political landscape. Professor Abdullah al-Shaiji said: “This course is an opportunity to qualify young Qataris and provide them with the necessary knowledge and skills in the fields of media and political analysis.”He added: “The course aims to enhance the capacity of young Qataris to gather and analyse accurate information and understand Qatari achievements at all levels. This is particularly true given Qatar’s influential soft power, its significant achievements in development and charitable work, and its pivotal role in bringing viewpoints closer at the Gulf, Arab, and global levels.” He praised the efforts of the QMC and QPC in building qualified media cadres capable of conveying Qatar’s accurate image, correcting negative stereotypes, and defending national achievements with evidence, figures, and statistics, thus contributing to strengthening Qatar’s position regionally and internationally.

The Qatar Press Center (QPC) condemns the killing of 20 Palestinians, including five journalists and several ambulance and civil defence crews while evacuating the wounded, in an Israeli air strike on the Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Yunis, south of the Gaza Strip.Quoting a medical source, WAFA reported that the journalists killed were: Mohammed Salama, a photojournalist for Al Jazeera; Hussam al-Masri, a photojournalist for Reuters; journalist Mariam Dagga, who works for several media outlets, including Independent Arabia and AP; and journalist Moaz Abu Taha for the American NBC network. Fellow journalist Ahmed Abu Aziz succumbed to his wounds following the Israeli massacre.This brings the number of journalists killed since the beginning of the aggression on Gaza to 245. The QPC affirms that the new Israeli massacre of journalists while performing their professional duties is part of a systematic policy pursued by the occupation army since the beginning of its war of extermination against the people of Gaza on October 7, 2023, targeting journalists’ locations, homes, and tents to prevent them from conveying the truth to the world and to silence their voices forever. The QPC reiterates its call on the international community, UN, human rights, and media organisations, to condemn the targeting of journalists in Gaza and to take urgent action to hold the Israeli occupation accountable before international courts for war crimes against journalists and media professionals. Impunity has encouraged the Israeli occupation forces to continue their series of assassinations, arrests, and intimidation of journalists, in full view of the world.Cameras documented the martyrdom of the journalists live on air. A circulating video shows a group of journalists and paramedics rushing to Nasser Hospital after the fourth floor was bombed, to begin rescuing the victims and wounded.However, they were surprised by a second Israeli airstrike targeting them, resulting in an increase in the number of casualties among photographers and medical personnel.The Government Media Office in the Gaza Strip condemned the recent Israeli massacre, noting that the number of journalist martyrs in the Strip had risen to 245 following the latest attack.The office called on the International Federation of Journalists to condemn the crimes against journalists and held Israel responsible for the brutal crimes committed in the Gaza Strip.

Al Markhiya Gallery is preparing to launch a new group exhibition titled “Reshaped” at the Fire Station - Artists’ Residence, on Tuesday evening, August 26, from 7 to 9pm, with the participation of a select group of Qatari and Arab artists currently working in Qatar.The exhibition brings together the works of more than twenty-five artists.In this context, Anas Qutait, art co-ordinator of Al Markhiya Gallery, said: “Through this exhibition, we are keen to present diverse artistic experiences that reflect the richness of the Arab art scene in Qatar. We emphasise the importance of materials as a partner in the creative process. The diversity of participants and their various styles give the exhibition an aesthetic and cognitive dimension that enriches the audience’s experience and exposes them to new interpretations of contemporary art.” Qutait added that the exhibition offers the public a unique opportunity to view a wide and diverse collection of artworks that reflect the spirit of experimentation and innovation among the participating artists, where materials and styles intertwine to create an integrated sensory and intellectual experience.The exhibition also provides an opportunity for visitors to interact directly with the works and explore the way each artist approaches both materials and ideas, making each painting, sculpture, or installation a unique experience that engages the senses and provokes thought.Through this diversity, the exhibition transforms into a vibrant space for contemplation and exploration, allowing the audience to experience art from a different perspective and brings them closer to understanding the depth of the creative process and the nature of the relationship between the artists and their material.This makes “Reshaped” an important addition to the cultural and artistic scene in Doha. At its core, the exhibition presents an artistic contemplation of the relationship between material, meaning, and transformation.“Reshaped” is part of Al Markhiya Gallery’s ongoing efforts to support Arab artists and highlight their experiences, while also consolidating Doha’s position as a prominent cultural destination hosting the most prominent art events in the region.

The Qatar Media Corporation (QMC) signed a co-operation agreement with Al Jazeera Media Network, represented by the Al Jazeera Media Institute, Thursday, at the corporation’s headquarters in the Channel 37 building. The ceremony was attended by several officials from both sides. The agreement was signed on behalf of the QMC by Abdullah Ghanem al-Binali al-Mohannadi, Director of the International Co-operation Office at the corporation, in addition to his duties as Director of the Planning and Quality Department. Iman al-Amri, Director of the Al Jazeera Media Institute, signed the agreement on behalf of the Al Jazeera Media Network. On this occasion, al-Mohannadi emphasised that the signing of this agreement comes within the framework of the corporation’s commitment to investing in knowledge and developing high-level media competencies. He noted that this partnership represents an important step towards building an integrated national media system that meets international standards. For her part, al-Amri welcomed this partnership with the QMC, stressing that the institute will leverage its expertise and capabilities in media training and development to serve this agreement, thus enhancing the position of Qatari media and preparing its cadres for the future. This agreement aims to enhance co-operation in the fields of training, media production, and the development of national competencies. This agreement will be implemented through the design and implementation of specialised training programmes. Providing practical training within the studios and facilities of the Al Jazeera Media Institute, as well as organising workshops and providing development consultations in technical, technological, and strategic aspects. The agreement also includes special benefits for QMC for training courses and media productions, contributing to supporting the human and creative capabilities of employees across its various sectors, while keeping pace with the rapid transformations in the media industry. The QMC affirms that this agreement is part of its strategic plans to enhance co-operation with leading media institutions and develop the capabilities of national cadres, serving the progress of Qatari media and strengthening its pioneering presence at the regional and international levels. On this occasion, Mariam Suwailem, Head of Training at the Human Resources Department at the QMC, told Gulf Times: “Today, we celebrate the signing of a strategic partnership, to collaborate on providing specialised media and technical training programmes that keep pace with the latest technical and professional developments in the media field. “This agreement reflects the commitment of both parties to enhancing the practical and technical capabilities of media professionals and preparing a creative generation that contributes to the production of high-quality content that meets international standards.”

The Qatar Media Corporation (QMC) announced the signing of a cooperation agreement with Al Jazeera Media Network, represented by the Al Jazeera Media Institute, this Thursday morning at the Corporation's headquarters in the Channel 37 building, in the presence of several officials from both sides. This agreement aims to enhance cooperation in the fields of training, media production, and the development of national competencies through the design and implementation of specialized training programmes, providing practical training within the studios and facilities of the Al Jazeera Media Institute, in addition to organizing workshops and providing development consultations in technical, technological, and strategic aspects. The agreement was signed on behalf of the QMC by Abdullah Ghanem al Binali al Mohannadi, Director of the International Cooperation Office at the Corporation, and on behalf of the Al Jazeera Media Network by Ms. Iman Al Amri, Director of the Al Jazeera Media Institute.

Qatar Museums (QM) has announced the relaunch of its environmental and awareness programme “Qatar Smiles”, which invites the public to participate in a series of volunteer activities to clean up archaeological and heritage sites across the country.Registration will open on September 15.The programme aims to integrate environmental and cultural aspects by engaging citizens, residents, and visitors, in practical initiatives that combine the joy of learning about Qatar’s rich history with contributing to its protection by cleaning up heritage sites that are a fundamental component of national identity.The programme places special emphasis on sustainability.Waste is collected in recyclable bags, sorted and transported to recycling facilities by the Seaside Collective.This makes “Qatar Smiles” a dual-impact initiative: environmental on the one hand, and educational and awareness-raising on the other.The QM emphasises that the “Qatar Smiles” programme reflects its strategy of engaging the local community in heritage protection and promoting a sense of environmental responsibility.It added that such initiatives are no less important than restoration and conservation efforts.The programme is led by experts and gives people a direct sense of partnership in protecting national heritage.The QM is expected to reveal a detailed schedule of activities and locations where the programme will be implemented in the coming period, with registration open for those interested through qm.org.qa/en/calendar/qatar-smiles-cleanups-on-archaeological-and-heritage-sites/The “Qatar Smiles” initiative has become a bridge connecting the past and the present, giving participants the opportunity to explore the beauty of Qatari heritage on the one hand, and to contribute to shaping a cleaner and more sustainable environmental future on the other.

The Qatar Press Center (QPC) has begun issuing and distributing membership cards to journalists and media professionals working in various media and press organisations.The Center's Director General, Sadiq Mohammed al-Ammari, confirmed that membership is of two types: the first is for prominent figures, pioneers, and senior media professionals, including Nasser Mohammed al-Othman, Dean of the Qatari Press, and others who have made significant contributions to the progress of journalism and media in Qatar.The second is general membership for journalists and media professionals. The Director General explained that the Center's membership includes all journalists and media professionals working in Qatari print, audio, and visual media outlets, as well as a number of radio stations, among others.He noted that the first phase of membership in the Center includes journalists, media professionals, producers, broadcasters, and anyone directly involved in journalistic work. He noted that the second phase of membership registration will include support positions, including photographers, proofreaders, graphic designers, and directors, thus ensuring that the Center's membership provides a comprehensive umbrella for all those involved in media work in Qatar.Al-Ammari explained that the Center's membership cards represent a means of identification and a certified identity containing reliable data to facilitate journalistic and media work.He noted that membership provides cardholders with certain benefits, discounts, and special prices for cardholders and their families regarding medical services in hospitals, private centers, and other facilities. Agreements have also been made with a number of distinguished hotels to offer special rates for accommodation, restaurants, and fitness centers. He noted that many stores and companies will join the discount programme in the coming period.The Director General emphasized that the QPC represents an umbrella for advancing journalistic and media work and a meeting place for all those working in the journalistic and media fields in Qatar, through intensive activity and growing local, Gulf, Arab, and international media partnerships.

Doha Film Institute (DFI) has presented a film series at the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA), featuring a curated selection of works from the acclaimed exhibition 'Your Ghosts Are Mine: Short film programme.’The evening session's lineup showcased a selection of six short films from around the world, celebrating a dense narrative form that carries powerful messages through intense scenes, allowing viewers to explore a diverse spectrum of human, social, and artistic issues.Sh'hab (Arabic for meteor) directed by Amal al-Muftah is a young Qatari filmmaker, was the first short drama to be screened. It was about a mischievous 8-year-old girl would do anything to spend time with her father and older brother at sea in the old village of Al Wakrah. In an effort to keep her home and safe, her mother begins to share with her the most elaborate mythological tales about falling stars. But this only stokes the little girl's imagination further, and she sets out to find one at night in an enchanting tale about childlike curiosity and wonder.Then Al-Sit (Arabic dialect for grandmother) was an interesting short drama directed by Suzannah Mirghani, a Sudanese-Russian writer. It took place in a cotton-farming village in Sudan, where the 15-year-old Nafisa has a crush on Babiker, but her parents have arranged her marriage to Nadir, a young Sudanese businessman living abroad. Nafisa’s grandmother Al-Sit, the powerful village matriarch, has her own plans for Nafisa’s future. But can Nafisa choose for herself? A compassionate story from Sudan about women—both powerless and powerful—exploring both ends of the social chain and how these roles might be changing in a modernizing world.The other four films were shorter with dramas like in “I am Afraid to Forget Your Face” directed by Cairo born Sameh Alaa, which was about the story of a man battling a great deal of adversity while in search of redemption, reunion and closure.To be followed by “And Then They Burn the Sea” by Filmmaker Majid Al-Remaihi who ruminates on the experience of witnessing his mother’s gradual and terminal memory loss over the course of many years.The nine minute long “Don't Get Too Comfortable” is a heartfelt, introspective letter to Shaima al-Tamimi, a Yemeni-East African filmmaker’s deceased grandfather. The letter questions the continuous pattern of movement amongst Yemenis in diaspora.The closing animation drama “Night” is based on the true story of a mother the filmmaker met in Palestine, it is a haunting and superbly crafted stop-animation about war, bereavement, and unimaginable sorrow.These screenings align with the Foundation's vision to explore the "power of cinema," not only as an entertainment tool, but also as a means of storytelling, broadening audience horizons, and deepening interconnectedness between communities.

A seminar was held at the Qatar Press Center (QPC) in which a select group of researchers and intellectuals participated. Speakers included Dr Marwan Qabalan, Director of the Political Studies Unit at the Arab Center for Research and Policy Studies, and Dr Mudar al-Dibs, a Syrian writer and researcher. It was moderated by media personality Rula Haidar.Haidar emphasised that the seminar was held at a critical time following a significant escalation in sectarian rhetoric among Syrians, particularly in the wake of the events in Sweida, which she described as a "breaking point," reflecting the depth of the crises Syrians are experiencing at this sensitive stage.Dr Qabalan emphasied that sectarian discourse in Syria is not a recent phenomenon, but rather has deep roots in the country's history, albeit to varying degrees.He pointed out that the former Syrian regime worked to taint national identity with a single ideological colour, which led to a major rift in the relationship between state and society.He explained that the Syrian military establishment has witnessed major defections since the beginning of the revolution, among the reasons for which were the sense of marginalisation felt by large segments of the population due to their lack of representation in state institutions.He noted that the alliances that emerged to confront the regime during the revolution were not sectarian, but rather encompassed diverse sectarian factions. This demonstrates that the division in Syria was, at its core, social and class-based rather than sectarian. It was more of a conflict between the countryside and the city, which controlled the regime.He explained that the absence of social justice and the monopolisation of power and wealth by a particular group led to a state of general discontent, which quickly transformed into a clear sectarian divide after the outbreak of the Syrian revolution, especially with the regime's use of this rhetoric as a means of defense and fragmentation of the revolutionary street.Dr Qabalan pointed out that one of the most prominent manifestations of the crisis today is the weakness of a unifying national identity, resulting from the absence of a state of justice and law. Citizens feel that the relationship between them and the state is purely administrative, limited to routine transactions and interests.He explained that the Syrian state, despite everything it has been through, has remained institutionally viable. He noted that basic services, such as electricity, have not been interrupted, indicating that institutions continue to function, even if their effectiveness is weak.He warned that the absence of the state does not only mean the absence of institutions, but also the absence of a state of citizenship, equality, and equal opportunity, which forces citizens to resort to sub-identities such as sect or tribe in search of protection and belonging.In this context, he emphasized that the current regime must succeed in its mission, warning against the occurrence of uncontrollable chaos, as has happened before. He called on all segments of the Syrian population to stand behind the new regime and help it achieve stability.Dr al-Dibs emphasised that sectarian rhetoric cannot arise in a sound political context. Where real politics exist, sectarian and tribal tendencies naturally collapse. He said: "What we are experiencing today is a direct result of the collapse of the nation-state project and the decline of political discourse in favour of identity-based and emotional discourse."He believed that the moment of sectarian rhetoric's explosion — as evidenced by the events in Sweida — reflects the fragility of Syrian national identity. He warned that transforming every historical or symbolic event into a sectarian occasion is extremely dangerous and weakens any unity.

The Qatar Press Centre (QPC) organised a seminar on “Israeli Violations against Palestinian Sports” as part of a series of sports journalism talks, which was attended by media professionals and those interested in sports and humanitarian affairs. The seminar was moderated by sports journalist Ali Issa, the chairman of the QPC’s Sports Committee. Palestinian journalist Ahmed Rajoub and Palestinian broadcaster Hassan Badr participated, providing field testimonies and documented information on the extent of the damage to Palestinian sports as a result of the Israeli aggression, from October 7, 2023, to the present day. The seminar reviewed details of the targeting of players and facilities, the destruction of clubs, stadiums, and halls, the media blackout, and the difficulties facing Palestinian sports media. Issa emphasised that the seminar is replete with information, data, and statistics that provide a vivid picture of the extent of the systematic targeting of Palestinian sports, which has resulted in the destruction of sports infrastructure, hindered the development of athletes, and shattered their lives and dreams. Rajoub said that Palestinian sports is not immune to the suffering of the Palestinian people, but rather are an integral part of this suffering. He pointed out that the Israeli occupation has caused the systematic destruction of this vital sector, with more than 600 Palestinian athletes killed since October 7, 2023. Sporting activities have come to a complete halt, not only in Gaza, but also in the West Bank and Jerusalem, with the exception of some events hosted by Qatar and some Arab countries. Rajoub revealed the death of more than 250 football players in Gaza and more than 25 players in the West Bank. In July alone, he said, the death toll was 43. All 23 Palestinian volleyball players, including 10 members of the Palestinian national team, were killed, in addition to more than 25 basketball players, 15 taekwondo exponents, 10 gymnasts, 10 judoka, 51 scouts, and 26 karatekas. Rajoub also noted the killing of technicians, administrators, and federation heads, such as Volleyball Federation head Mohammed al-Dalu, Bodybuilding Federation head Kamel al-Yazidi, and Nayef al-Hattab, the head of the Shuja’iyya Club. He added that sports media was not immune to these losses, as more than 10 sports journalists – most of whom had transitioned to working in general journalism – lost their lives. Rajoub said that some sports commentators who used to travel between stadiums were killed despite their lack of involvement in any political activity. He pointed out that the Palestinian football team is the only one capable of representing Palestine at present, thanks to its presence outside the country since the beginning of the Israeli aggression. Regarding facilities, Rajoub explained that more than 95% of sports facilities have been completely destroyed, including 29 of the 35 indoor gymnasiums. Twenty-three football fields have been damaged, 19 of which were completely destroyed. Some stadiums, such as Yarmouk, Palestine, and Al-Durra, have been converted into shelters. A total of 58 sports club headquarters have been destroyed, leaving only six clubs unscathed. Three swimming pools, 15 outdoor basketball courts, and 17 five-a-side football fields have also been destroyed. All purebred Arabian horses in Palestinian stables have also been killed. Rajoub, who deemed what happened to be a complete destruction of Palestinian sports in every aspect, stressed that rebuilding will need to begin from scratch, given the fading passion among athletes after these massive losses. He emphasised that the Palestinian national team brings together players from both inside and outside the country, adding that they receive significant public support from Palestinians, Qataris, and all Arab peoples. Commenting on Palestine’s Olympic status, Rajoub noted that some Palestinian athletes were unable to represent their country in Arab championships. In what he considered to be the selective application of standards, he cited the participation of an Israeli player who took part in the war and won a medal in Paris, despite the published evidence against him.

The Qatar Press Centre (QPC) has concluded a course on "The Role of the Media in Promoting the Message of State Protocol", presented by Dr Omar Ghanem.The course, which was attended by 20 participants, representing ministries and state institutions, addressed the role of the media in strengthening international relations and countering misleading and false news that seeks to undermine these relations.Dr Ghanem noted that the course served as a forum for communication with various segments of society.“The course was attended by workers in both the public and private sectors, as well as media professionals and journalists,” he said. “Therefore, the academic material took into account the professional diversity of the participants, with the aim of informing them of the practices of state protocol, as a large part of this area is not clear to public opinion.”“The course focused on the role of the media in promoting the message of state protocol, as it is the authority that can defend national interests with high professional values and raise community awareness in the face of foreign media misinformation campaigns,” Dr Ghanem said.He discussed the definition of protocol, noting that some non-practitioners have contributed to misinterpreting protocol and etiquette.Dr Ghanem concluded that protocol is the rules of the state, while etiquette is the rules of society.Protocol is defined by guidelines, while etiquette is defined by polite behaviour or courteous conduct.Therefore, he said, etiquette requires protocol guidelines to ensure it is on the right track.He addressed the course's topics, saying: "The course covered four topics, the most important of which was the foundation of protocol from a historical, ethical, and civilizational perspective.”“Some of the confusion surrounding the origin of the rules that contributed to shaping the guidelines discussed by members of societies in this field was resolved,” he added.Dr Ghanem also focused on the Eastern origin of protocol and how Islam contributed to strengthening this image, drawing on what is stated in the Holy Qur'an and the Prophet's biography, as well as the results of the righteous predecessors in shaping the message of state protocol.Many of the methodologies used in Western presidential palaces are now protocols derived from the East.The second topic addressed Qatari state protocol and its basic components, and how its five pillars work: the flag, the national anthem, the state emblem, the emir's images, and the state's precedents system.These components, Dr Ghanem stressed, must be familiarised with by specialists and others, so that they have sufficient knowledge of how to deal with them.The third topic addressed how the media contributes to supporting state protocol and confronting foreign media disinformation campaigns, which confuse public opinion and misinterpret certain actions to undermine community morale.Positively, Dr Ghanem said, media contribution in support of state protocol reinforces the message of welcoming guests, especially during state visits where the media is a key pillar.The fourth section addressed skills related to handshaking, appearance, and proper behaviour, with a focus on what is unique to Qatari society, such as majlis hospitality.At the end of the course, the trainees called for an advanced training course in state protocol to gain a deeper understanding of diplomatic dealings and the mechanisms and rules of effective diplomatic communication.

Qatar has made an impression in the programme *Eshroun (Arabic for 20), broadcast on Alaraby 2, with notable participation that goes beyond the involvement of Qatari artistic and cultural figures in commentary and voting across the episodes.Several Qatari cultural landmarks and personalities were also selected among the best in the Arab world in categories including visual arts, theater, libraries, and archaeology.The Qatar National Library (QNL) stood out in the episode dedicated to the best Arab libraries, recognised as one of the region’s leading knowledge institutions due to its unique collection of books and manuscripts, and its pivotal role in promoting knowledge and supporting scientific research in Qatar and beyond.Additionally, the Al Zubarah archaeological site was included among the top Arab heritage landmarks, in recognition of its historical and cultural significance and its designation as a Unesco World Heritage Site.In the visual arts episode, artists Yousef Ahmad and Hassan al-Mulla were named among the top 20 Arab visual artists for their contributions that reflect Qatari identity and have enriched the Arab art scene.In the episode focused on theatre, the play *Umm al-Zein was featured for its relevance to the social transformations taking place in Qatar at the time of its performance.Alongside these recognitions, Qatari intellectuals and artists offered commentary during the episodes, including theatre critic Hassan Rashid, artist and critic Jamila al-Shereem, visual artist Hanadi al-Darwish, and writer and novelist Huda al-Nuaimi.A number of Qatari cultural and artistic figures participated in the voting for nominated works and individuals.These included Mohammed Yaqoub al-Yousef, Ibtisam al-Saffar, Abdullah al-Mulla, Moza al-Ishaq, and Mohammed al-Shahwani.The programme *Eshroun presents a list of the top 20 Arab icons in the fields of culture and the arts in each episode, based on votes from a select group of Arab critics and professionals.Hosted by media personality Maya El Hajj, the show airs every Sunday at 8pm on Alaraby 2, with all episodes available on demand through the “Alaraby Plus” app.

The Al Jazeera Media Institute is to launch a Field Media Diploma at its headquarters in Doha from September 13 to October 16, as part of its ongoing efforts to develop and qualify media cadres according to the latest standards. The diploma will consist of 150 training hours in the evening over five weeks, focusing on practical application and direct interaction. The institute believes that modern field work in the media requires journalists to combine accurate and objective reporting with creative and innovative methods. This makes familiarity with television production methods and an understanding of the professional differences between different forms an essential skill for every journalist. The diploma targets journalists, media workers, and media college students, as well as those with previous experience in journalism or documentary film production, with preference given to those with relevant university qualifications. The programme covers four main tracks: exploring the relationship between reality and creativity in television production; pre-production (research, writing, and team planning); production (filming plans and applying realism and creativity techniques); and post-production (story building, editing, and processing visual and audio materials). The training team will include field journalists, directors, and experts in television report production, documentaries, and editing, in addition to trainers in journalistic writing and visual storytelling. This will enable trainees to learn about the latest professional practices and modern techniques in all stages of media work. The intensive professional diplomas offered by the Al Jazeera Media Institute focus on meeting labour market requirements through practical training and interaction with experts. This contributes to bridging knowledge gaps, enhancing trainees’ readiness, and building professional relationships, in line with the institute’s strategy to develop media cadres and enhance their competitiveness.

Gaza ceasefire negotiations remain in their "early stage" after more than a week of talks, even as mediators step up efforts to broker a truce between Israel and Hamas, Qatar's foreign ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari told reporters Tuesday."Discussions on the framework agreement are still ongoing. Both delegations are present here in Doha, and the mediators are intensifying efforts to reach an agreement," al-Ansari said during his weekly media briefing."The negotiations are still in the first phase, which is specifically about reaching an agreement of principle ahead of negotiations that will begin, God willing, in the next phase," he said.The Qatari spokesman insisted: "We believe there is no stalemate," adding there was no set timeframe for the talks.As long as there are meetings in Doha, this means that the negotiations are ongoing, he said.Qatar has been mediating indirect negotiations between Palestinian resistance movement Hamas and Israel alongside Egypt and the United States.Al-Ansari declined to comment on specific meetings held in the United States between high-level Qatari officials and US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff.He said that he did not have a specific timetable for Witkoff's visit to Doha.On another note, Dr al-Ansari welcomed the ceasefire announcement in the southern Syrian city of Sweida. He said, "Qatar is in constant contact with the Syrian government on various issues."In response to a question about the Israeli raids on the Syrian province, al-Ansari condemned "Israel's irresponsible policies in the region" and the raids targeting Syria and Lebanon.He added: "We cannot accept the absence of accountability for Israel's absurd behaviour in the region. There must be international intervention to stop Israel's absurd behaviour in the region."Al-Ansari noted that "communications are ongoing with our brothers in Syria to provide security and economic support."

In a series highlighting prominent figures who have left their mark and contributions in the development of journalism and media, the Qatar Press Centre (QPC) has continued its "Pioneers of World Journalism".The centre is showcasing the stories of media figures, their successes, and their inspiring experiences for generations of journalists and media professionals.Among these is Carl von Ossietzky, the German journalist and activist who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1935, despite being arrested on charges of high treason for publishing information related to Germany's secret military rearmament.Ossietzky was born in Hamburg, Germany, in 1889.At high school, he was not a distinguished student, and he left school at the age of 17 to become a government administrative official.Ossietzky soon pursued a career in journalism and succeeded in it.His first journalistic article was published in the pages of the newspaper *Free People.Ossietzky later wrote on topics about theatre, women's issues, and the early problems of automobile use. He also focused on political and cultural developments during the Weimar period.On July 5, 1913, he wrote an article criticising a pro-military court ruling in Erfurt, and was subsequently summoned to appear before the court.His opposition to Germany's military policy in its final years and its armaments led him to become a pacifist, opposing all forms of war and violence.In 1916, he was drafted into the army despite his deteriorating health and was forced to join the army during WWI.The massacres left him frightened and alarmed.Ossietzky became a voice against militarism and Nazism, becoming the secretary of the German Peace Society in Berlin, where he founded the monthly *Mitteilungsblatt, which first appeared in 1920.He also became a regular contributor, under the pseudonym Thomas Mörner, to the monthly *Moinsten Monatsheften.Ossietzky later served as foreign editor of the *Berliner Volkszeitung, the Berlin people's newspaper, known for its anti-war, neutral, and democratic editorial policy.He joined the *Tagebusch, a political weekly, in 1924.In the same year, Siegfried Jacobson took over as editor of *Die Weltbühne.During his tenure, a series of investigations were published on Germany's violation of the Treaty of Versailles by rebuilding its air force and training pilots in the Soviet Union.He also published an article by Walter Kreiser.However, Ossietzky, as the editor-in-chief, was tried for high treason and sentenced to 18 months in prison.He was mistreated in prison by the guards, forced to perform hard labour despite suffering a heart attack. He also contracted tuberculosis, and the government refused to release him.In 1934, his colleagues in the German League supported the idea of nominating him for the Nobel Peace Prize.The Nobel Committee praised him as a defender of freedom of expression and a symbol of peace.This was the first time the award was given to an individual at odds with his country, and it helped mobilise public opinion in the fight against Nazism.When he was announced as the winner of the Nobel Prize in 1935, the German government prevented him from traveling to Norway to receive his award.The German press was also prohibited from commenting on the award.Ossietzky remained under constant surveillance until his death from tuberculosis in a Berlin hospital in 1938, after five years in prison.