Japanese embassy in Baghdad hosts iftar for Iraqi children

BAGHDAD — The Japanese Embassy in Baghdad hosted a festive iftar gathering for 85 children on Sunday evening, including those under the care of Iraqi civil activist Hisham Al-Dhahabi.

The event featured entertainment and lighthearted competition, with Ambassador Futoshi Matsumoto joining the children in a playful match of “Mheibes,” a traditional Iraqi game popular during Ramadan.

In a display of cultural exchange, the Ambassador donned a traditional dishdasha, a men’s floor-length robe worn especially during Ramadan, for the friendly match. The Japanese team, led by Ambassador Matsumoto, sported traditional attire but emerged defeated.

“Our team lost all rounds of Mheibes; what a disaster for us, as the children of Iraq are stronger than Japanese diplomats,” Ambassador Matsumoto quipped on his Instagram account, reflecting the lighthearted evening.

Al-Dhahabi, the activist and a prominent figure in Iraqi civil society, attended the event. Often referred to as the “Father of Orphans,” Al-Dhahabi is known for his dedication to supporting vulnerable children.