Memorial honors late playwright and journalist Alaa Hassan Al-Attabi in Baghdad

BAGHDAD — Al-Mada Foundation for Culture and Arts in Baghdad hosted a memorial session Friday morning for Iraqi playwright and journalist Alaa Hassan Al-Attabi, who died earlier this year following a long illness.

The event brought together friends, colleagues, and family members, who shared reflections on his legacy and described his ability to turn everyday hardships into thoughtful, non-confrontational satire that encouraged introspection and empathy.

“His passing left a deep void,” said his brother, Falah Hassan, speaking to 964media. “Even in his final days, he joked about death and comforted us. He said, ‘Don’t cry, that’s life—we’ll meet again.’”

Born in Nasiriyah, Hassan graduated from a teachers’ institute and began his professional life in education before turning to theater, then journalism. His early works, including school plays, were marked by a blend of humor and pain.

He went on to write for several publications, including Al-Sada magazine and Gulf newspapers, and later joined Al-Mada newspaper in the late 1990s, where he gained recognition for his daily column.

Ali Hussein, managing editor at Al-Mada, told 964media that his friendship with Hassan began in the early 1980s. “He was originally a distinguished playwright, and we encouraged him to pursue journalism in the mid-90s. His satirical style was subtle, avoiding offense while offering sharp social and political commentary.”

Hassan also worked in radio and television, producing and presenting programs focused on cultural and humanitarian issues. Illness in his later years curtailed his professional activities, but his influence endured among readers and colleagues.

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