Sanaa:The Ministry of Culture and Tourism organized an event to announce the winners of the "Al-Aqsa Flood, Support Fronts and Resistance" short story competition, honoring writers from Yemen and the Arab world. This marks the first edition of the competition, dedicated to the martyr writer Yahya Sinwar, in collaboration with the Heritage and Cultural Development Fund.
According to Yemen News Agency, Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism Abdullah Al-Washli highlighted the competition's role in promoting resistance literature that unites and strengthens national identity. He emphasized its significance in fostering a cultural movement that enhances awareness and creativity, turning national and literary symbols into a source of inspiration.
Al-Washli reflected on Yahya Sinwar's legacy, noting his efforts to convey the Palestinian narrative through his novel "The Thorn and the Carnation" during his imprisonment. The Deputy Minister stressed the importance of maintaining this narrative against attempts to erase it, citing the "Al-Aqsa Flood" as a pivotal moment in restoring the prominence of the Palestinian cause.
Al-Washli further stated that the competition aims to engage Arab writers in sharing stories that reflect the life and solidarity of the nation. He called for continued efforts to present narratives of dignity and truth to the world.
Dr. Essam Wasel, a member of the judging committee, detailed the competition process, which received 328 entries from 19 Arab countries. Out of these, 33 texts were shortlisted, culminating in the selection of the top three winners. Wasel praised the diversity of the submissions, which depicted the human spirit in resistance.
At the event's conclusion, Reem Rajab Hafez Abdullah was awarded first place for her story "The Grey Box," Jaber Fathi Saad from Egypt won second place with "The Code of Cake and Basil," and Ibrahim Saeed Ahmed Bamehri from Yemen secured third place for "I Am Still Alive." The Ministry honored the judging committee members for their contributions, and the book "Echo of the Flood," featuring shortlisted stories, was released.
