The International Media Center, affiliated with the Media Department of the Imam Hussain Holy Shrine, hosted a delegation from the Arab Youth Forum, led by General Supervisor Abdullah Abdul-Hamid, along with members from Tunisia, Algeria, Egypt, Palestine, Lebanon, and other Arab countries. The visit focused on discussing key issues facing Arab youth across the region.

According to Karbala Now News Agency, the meeting was also attended by His Eminence Sheikh Ali Al-Qarawi, Director of the Bayena Center for Intellectual Security, and Dr. Khalil Al-Tayyar, Advisor for Foreign Relations at the Holy Shrine. Both stressed the importance of continued dialogue and the organization of youth events in cities such as Beirut, Damascus, and others across the Arab world.

In his remarks, Abdullah Abdul-Hamid highlighted several major concerns affecting young people in the region. He explained that the most pressing issue for Arab youth is the economy, noting that no Arab country today enjoys true economic stability. He added that Arab youth seek pride and dignity and that they represent the only nation still confronting global colonialism. At the core of their collective concern, he emphasized, is the issue of Palestine. He stated that the liberation of Palestine would restore the pride of the entire Arab nation.

Abdul-Hamid pointed out that one of the greatest challenges facing Arab youth is the way colonial policies are designed to create economic hardship. This hardship, he explained, forces youth to focus on personal survival, stability, and family building, leaving them with limited space to engage in greater causes related to justice, dignity, and national pride.

Regarding the activities of the International Media Center, he expressed his appreciation for its mission, saying that it reflects the teachings of Imam Hussain (peace be upon him). He described the center’s staff as messengers who uphold the values for which Imam Hussain was martyred. These values, he said, are not limited to any one group or sect, but represent a universal message that unites all segments of society through a shared humanitarian vision.

In his closing remarks, Abdul-Hamid called for unity and cooperation among Arab youth. He stressed the importance of creating opportunities for young people across the Arab world to meet, engage in dialogue, share experiences, and develop their own initiatives. He clarified that the forum does not dictate decisions but encourages youth to think critically, explore shared concerns, and work together to develop future projects that serve the broader Arab community.

The Arab Youth Forum is an active platform for both in-person and virtual dialogue among Arab youth. It addresses key regional issues such as Palestine, Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen, and promotes solidarity, resistance, and collaboration through youth-led initiatives and cultural engagement.

Riyadh Al-Asadi