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Majed Al-Halani, manager for Lebanese artist Assi Al-Halani, announced that the family of a person killed in a traffic incident involving Walid Al-Halani has agreed to drop their civil claim, potentially clearing the way for his release from detention as legal procedures continue.
Top Stories:
Walid Al-Halani traffic incident — An official statement issued November 11, 2026, by the young Lebanese artist's media office confirmed details of a fatal traffic collision at the entrance to Saib Salam tunnel in Beirut. The victim died from severe injuries, and Al-Halani remains in ongoing investigation at the Gendarmerie station in Tayyouneh district.Stacey Keach death — American actor Stacey Keach, 85, died following a prolonged struggle with serious heart disease and heart failure, according to his Polish wife Malgorzata Tomasi in a statement to Variety. Keach played severe characters including detective Mike Hammer and portrayed American writer Ernest Hemingway across television and film roles.Mustafa Qatr cello death — Egyptian cellist Mustafa Qatr, who performed with legendary singer Umm Kulthum and was among the last surviving members of her orchestra, has died. Yasser Mawad, conductor of the Arab Takht music and singing ensemble, announced his death and described Qatr as a pioneer of the cello in Egypt and the Arab world.Hani Al-Omari new visual single — Artist Hani Al-Omari released a visually produced work titled "Khams Waradat" (Five Roses) combining song with cinematic production and choreography. The track is part of a new album scheduled for release in early 2027, marking a departure from conventional artistic formats in his career.Philip Jayenada Goncourt Prize — French writer Philip Jayenada received the prestigious Goncourt Prize despite admitting to using ChatGPT in his winning novel, creating controversy after the academy had excluded another author for suspected artificial intelligence use. The contradiction has sparked debate about literary standards and the boundary between AI as a writing tool and AI-generated composition.Sant Levant concert cancellation — Lebanese artist Sant Levant cancelled his scheduled performance in Cologne, Germany on short notice due to health complications. In an Instagram statement, he explained he had exhausted medical interventions including medication and intravenous treatment but was unable to perform.Coming Up:
Soha Sabbagh opens a solo exhibition titled "Unruly Horse: The Mark of a Phase" on Thursday, November 12, at Al-Muhatra gallery in Hamra, featuring work exploring color, line and form alongside themes of human and political resistance. A musical evening titled "I Call Upon You: A Tribute to Ahmad Qaabour" takes place Thursday, November 19, at Jamil Rowas Hall at Arab University of Beirut, conducted by maestro Andre Al-Haj and celebrating the late Lebanese artist's work on Palestine, memory and social justice.