Beshara | The National

Welcome to The National's weekly newsletter Beshara, where we share the most positive stories of the week.

The historic Sporting Beach Club offers views of Beirut and the Mediterranean

It’s my first day back in the office after a much-needed break.

Physically, I’m at my desk, eyes on my screens, typing away at Beshara. Mentally, though, I’m in Beirut, floating in the Mediterranean, snacking on salty peanuts and carrots, and soaking up uninterrupted views of Raouche’s famous Pigeon Rocks at none other than the historic Sporting Beach Club – my favourite place in the world.

Founded in 1953, Sporting is more than just a summer escape. It has been a sanctuary for generations of Lebanese throughout the country's most turbulent chapters, drawing a steady stream of visitors all year round. Even during Lebanon’s 15-year civil war, Sporting braved on, providing visitors with a rare sense of calm and unity.

"I think it's one of the few places in Lebanon that has never closed," its owner, Walid Abou Nassar, tells me.

To him, Sporting is a microcosm of what Lebanon, a country of cultural and religious diversity where decades of conflict have failed to extinguish its savoir-vivre, could be. “The culture, cohesion, unity, working together and welcoming of all people – this is the identity we want to reflect and uphold," he explains. "This is the hope we have for our country."

And just like that, it clicks – why this place feels like home and why the hours I spent there have left me recharged.

Sporting is not just a beach club. It's a quiet testament to continuity and community in a region too often defined by conflict. So, when will you book your flight to Beirut?

US actress Wanda Sykes attends the Golden Globes wearing a pin in tribute to Renee Nicole Good, who was shot and killed by an ICE agent in Minneapolis. AFP

This year’s Golden Globe Awards doubled as a showcase of solidarity, with social and humanitarian causes taking centre stage. Beyond the glamour, celebrities used their attire to show support for campaigns that turned the red carpet into a canvas for advocacy.

Actor Mark Ruffalo and actresses Natasha Lyonne and Wanda Sykes were among those seen wearing “Be Good” pins, a slogan associated with protests against the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency and calls for more humane immigration policies.

Be Good is a campaign started by several non-profit organisations, including the American Civil Liberties Union, to honour mother-of-three Renee Nicole Good and Keith Porter, father of two, who were killed by ICE agents this month.

Meanwhile, Palestinian actress Saja Kilani, one of the stars of The Voice of Hind Rajab, wore a custom black gown inspired by the traditional Palestinian thobe. The most symbolic element was the use of tatreez, the traditional Palestinian embroidery style passed down through generations of women. More than decoration, tatreez is a powerful means of preserving cultural memory.

- Hamza Ismail, 19, is one of Egypt’s top kiteboarders. The athlete comes from the ancient Bedouin community and stays true to his roots as he chases records, recognition and representation

The Palestinian mission to the UK is opened in London. EPA

The Palestinian embassy has officially opened in London, months after the UK recognised Palestinian statehood in a historic decision in September.

Ambassador Husam Zomlot, who unveiled the embassy’s official plaque, said: “This is a day of hope, a day of steadfastness and a day that reminds the world that peace is not only possible, it is inevitable, when rooted in justice, dignity and equality."

The building in Hammersmith, West London, has served as the Palestinian diplomatic headquarters for more than 30 years, but the upgrade from a mission to an embassy confirms its full diplomatic status in the UK.

Obeida, 14, who was evacuated from Gaza to receive medical treatment in the UK, spoke at the inauguration ceremony, saying the embassy was significant for Palestinians. It is a place where “our people are seen, where our voices are heard and where our hope for justice and dignity lives”, he added.