BAGHDAD: Over 100 films competed for top honors, tackling powerful social issues and pushing the boundaries of storytelling.

Egypt’s Ahmed Fayez clinched the first prize with his gripping short film The Postman. Jordan’s Moatasem Smeirat secured second place with Dijour, a production by the Jordanian Ministry of Culture and Heritage. Meanwhile, Oman’s Dalila Al-Deriyah earned third place for Dry Leaves, produced by the Omani Cinema Society.

Special recognition went to Fahad Al-Maimani, whose Omani documentary You Will Not Dive Alone was named Best Documentary. Syrian director Qusay Hussam Sharabati’s Night and Palestinian filmmaker Mohammed Misawi’s The Key received special mentions.

Of the 100+ submissions, 19 films made it to the festival’s final list, showcasing themes like organ trafficking, crime, and innovative narratives.

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