Knights of Dialogue / 20
Mohammed Al-Amara / Basra
The morning in Basra was set for a meeting with loved ones.
The first meeting point was the Al-Miqal train station.
Bright faces filled with love for the homeland, in all its religions, ethnicities, and communities. The meeting was planned, but everything that happened in that moment felt like returning to the familiar…!
Faces I met for the first time, yet the heart knew them, and the soul said we have met!
A distinguished group representing Iraq genuinely, easy to interact and integrate with. They had a special charm and aura, as if I had known them for many years. I took them to my city, Al-Zubair, to my home, and they quickly became like family.
Time was harsh and did not allow us much to enjoy listening and talking with them.
As part of the “Knights of Dialogue” program launched by Masarat Foundation for Cultural and Media Development, we proudly agreed to raise the slogan: #ThroughDialogueWeRemainAndRise.
This slogan became the starting point for the Knights’ tour in my city, Al-Zubair, where we visited educational institutions, represented by Al-Razi schools, then began visiting religious and historical sites, starting from Imam Ali’s Step, a monument combining history, spiritual serenity, and architectural beauty.
Then we went to meet Bishop Habib Al-Noufali at the bishopric in central Basra, and the day was completed by meeting the Mandaeans, where dignitaries from all components of Basra gathered, making it an exceptional meeting in every detail.
In the evening, at the closest point to the last Iraqi land border in Safwan, the Knights of Dialogue experienced Basra folklore and arts, with their rhythms, melodies, instruments, colors, and characters.
We then visited the city’s pigeon towers, learning about the “Janayah” and “Mutairjiya”, and talked with locals about pigeon breeding and prices.
From the world of birds, we headed at night to the beloved city of Al-Faw, where Ras Al-Bisha, boats, the sea, and sailors awaited us.
We were welcomed by the Haji Ismail Al-Fawi family, and it was one of the most beautiful nights.
We waited for sunrise to spend time with the Samaja and Haddaka, learning about their work and the dangers of the sea.
Different fish species and seafood marked the dawn, which ended with breakfast in the garden of the Al-Fawi family, who created a masterpiece of Basra’s hospitality.
From Al-Faw, we went to Abu Al-Khasib, visiting Al-Sayyab House, where every corner seems to recite poetry and love for Iraq. Participants explored this heritage and rich cultural legacy.
We then met the city’s dignitaries and discussed coexistence among the city’s communities throughout history and the city’s economic importance as an agricultural hub.
From Abu Al-Khasib, we went to Al-Ashar, by the Shatt al-Arab, with its unique architecture, Razzuna, and Al-Shanasheel, reflecting Basra’s special charm.
Aboard the Ashari boat, the Knights of Dialogue spent their last night in Basra. The magic of the night embraced everyone, as the Shatt al-Arab seemed to extend its bridges to hold the hearts of Iraqis attached to their land and homeland.
The days and nights passed quickly. I wished they would not end, or at least return soon… The team was not just a group of individuals; it was all of Iraq in my home, and all my people, from the depth of history to today, had gathered here under a palm branch by the Shatt al-Arab.
Out of deep attachment and love, I refrained from saying goodbye, choosing instead the words: “I entrust you to God and Iraq. Until we meet again.”
