Amman, 13 January 2026 – The Abdul Hameed Shoman Foundation celebrated poet and novelist Ibrahim Nasrallah last night after he won the Neustadt International Prize for Literature, one of the world’s most prestigious literary awards, often called the “American Nobel.” Nasrallah is the first Arabic-language writer to receive the prize since its establishment in 1970.

The ceremony, held at the Shoman Cultural Forum, was attended by writers, academics, and distinguished guests. Remarks were delivered by Dr. Mu’jib Al Zahrani, Dr. Razan Ibrahim, and Dr. Ziad Al Zoubi, with the event moderated by Dr. Lydia Rashid.

Valentina Kassisieh, CEO of the Abdul Hameed Shoman Foundation, said:
“Today is not an ordinary occasion, but a shining moment that recognizes the power of writing—where the text moves from the margins to the center, and where the Arabic word rises to meet the world with confidence and beauty.”

Kassisieh highlighted Nasrallah’s five decades of creative work, praising his ability to give language broad human dimensions that go beyond fixed meanings. She added that his Neustadt win is a global acknowledgment of Arabic creativity and a testament to the cultural vitality of the Arab world:
“This award honors not only Ibrahim Nasrallah but opens a window for Arabic literature to the world, showing its richness and enduring legacy.”

Dr. Mu’jib Al Zahrani reflected on his long relationship with Nasrallah, recalling moments shared at cultural events. He noted that Nasrallah’s work stands out for its modernist approach and innovative style, influenced in part by the French literary school:
“While many writers worldwide experiment with new narrative languages, few Arab writers explore this style. Nasrallah is among the most prominent. His writing carries deep insight, sharp wit, and persistent questioning, all of which shine in his narrative works.”

Dr. Razan Ibrahim emphasized the broader cultural significance of celebrating Nasrallah:
“This award recognizes a body of literature that creates compelling human and artistic discourse. It also strengthens the place of the Palestinian narrative in global literature, with all its political and documentary dimensions.”

She further highlighted the cinematic qualities in his novels:
“Nasrallah is one of the novelists whose work shows a strong connection to film. Cinema has been an important cultural source, inspiring ideas that come alive in his novels.”

Dr. Ziad Al Zoubi praised Nasrallah’s multidisciplinary talents:
“Ibrahim Nasrallah masters multiple forms of expression—not only poetry and prose, but also visual arts, photography, and film. His diverse practice reminds us of rare creators who excel across multiple fields.”

Al Zoubi also noted the global impact of Nasrallah’s work:
“The translation of several of his novels has allowed him to reach readers worldwide. His storytelling is human and nuanced, avoiding heavy-handed politics or obvious moral lessons. It expresses the human spirit, attachment to homeland, and the meaning of defending it across generations.”

Ibrahim Nasrallah said:
“It is not easy to dedicate one’s life to writing, but it is the best path—if one can follow it. I devoted myself to my project, loyal to my words, guarding them from darkness or blinding light. I wanted them to remain kind, like the many faces and hearts that shaped who I am today.”

He added that he will travel to the University of Oklahoma in late September to receive the Neustadt Prize. He expressed his joy that the Arabic language is winning the award for the first time, and that the work representing him—Time of White Horses in English translation—affirms that Palestine has always been, and will remain, Arab and Palestinian from the river to the sea. A conference on Palestinian culture will also take place during the award ceremony.

About Ibrahim Nasrallah
Born in Amman in 1954, Ibrahim Nasrallah is a Jordanian poet, novelist, and literary figure. His works, several of which have been translated into multiple languages, blend historical realism with imaginative narrative and explore human and Palestinian themes. Nasrallah has received numerous prestigious literary awards and is also an accomplished painter and photographer.