marwan
This is the so-called Beit Hanina dress. It is a traditional folk costume from the surrounding villages and towns of Jerusalem. It is distinguished by its intricate hand embroidery that reflects the rich Palestinian identity… The Beit Hanina dress, Jerusalem, 1958. The beauty about these folklore dresses are in the stitching and embroidery that represents different provincial regions of Palestine.
CrossFireArabia
From PALARTS
Created by Gazan artist Haitham Zourob, this vibrant painting powerfully captures Palestinian heritage, memory, and enduring hope. The composition centers on a figure draped in a bold red garment holding high a set of traditional keys—a universal symbol of the right of return and connection to ancestral homes. In the foreground, an elderly woman wearing a traditional white headscarf (thob) gazes out with calm, resilient determination, symbolizing the steadfastness (sumud) of older generations holding onto their history. Set against a warm, sun-drenched orange backdrop, the background features a densely layered historic town adorned with colorful domes, minarets, and palm trees. Flying above the cityscape is a prominent Palestinian flag alongside a flock of birds taking flight, evoking themes of freedom and peace. Lush green branches frame the top right, contrasting with the warm background colors to create a rich visual narrative of home, identity, and hope.
CrossFireArabia
Gaza Underground is a novel written in Arabic by Atef Abu Sief.
An extract:
Once, Abdel-Halim suggested transforming the tunnels beneath Gaza into an “underground” network. Wael replied that some things do not lend themselves to commerce; what was being proposed was not a business venture, but a solution to the crisis. “Can you imagine,” he asked—gesturing along the length of the tunnel—”that there is an entire city underground here?! What will we do with it after the war?” Salim interjected, saying they would do nothing; they would simply continue sitting in the “magic café.” Naeem remarked, “Thanks to the war for this café.” They laughed as they reminisced about their gatherings at Wael’s chalet by the sea.
