The Yasser Arafat Foundation has awarded the Yasser Arafat Achievement Award for 2024 to the healthcare team working in Gaza, specifically recognizing Al-Ahli Arab Hospital for its ongoing humanitarian efforts in serving the community during the genocide carried out by the Israeli occupation over the past year.

This announcement was made during an event at the Yasser Arafat Museum on October 29, 2024, marking the 20th anniversary of the martyrdom of the founding leader, Yasser Arafat. Attendees included members of the Palestine Liberation Organization's Executive Committee, Fatah’s Central Committee, the Revolutionary Council, various ministers and ambassadors, and foundation officials.

The foundation’s Board of Directors, acting exceptionally on the recommendation of the award committee, decided to forego the usual award procedures this year, choosing instead to honor Gaza as a gesture of solidarity and support.

Dr. Ola Awad, chair of the award committee, expressed that Abu Ammar’s anniversary has become a national day for Palestinians to remember the late president and his legacy of resilience and struggle. She emphasized that his keffiyeh remains a powerful symbol of Palestine, recognized globally and cherished by all Palestinians.

Each year, the Yasser Arafat Foundation celebrates the anniversary of Abu Ammar’s martyrdom by announcing the winner of the annual achievement award. This year, the award is dedicated to the healthcare staff in Gaza, particularly Al-Ahli Arab (Baptist) Hospital.

Dr. Ahmad Soboh, Chairman of the Foundation's Board, highlighted their commitment to national efforts to stop the aggression of the Israeli occupation and to support the people of Gaza, asserting the right to end the occupation and establish the independent Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital.

Reflecting on the significance of the day, Dr. Soboh remarked that from his last post at the "Muqata'a" close to Arafat’s grave, he reaffirmed the foundation's dedication to Arafat’s vision, choosing the slogan "One homeland... One people... One destiny" for this anniversary.

He mentioned that this year’s award is not just for Al-Ahli Arab Hospital but acknowledges the entire healthcare sector in Gaza, honoring the frontline workers who have demonstrated their humanity, patriotism, and commitment to their profession.

Ruhi Fatouh, President of the National Council, along with Dr. Ahmad Soboh and Dr. Ola Awad, presented the award trophy, certificate, and $25,000 check to Bishop Hossam Naoum, the head of the Episcopal Church in the Holy Land, who oversees the hospital.

The award aims to encourage creativity and excellence in national, cultural, social, economic, and academic endeavors, with the winner receiving a certificate, a trophy, and a monetary prize.