Arab media and viewers were shocked at the news of the death of renowned Lebanese TV anchor Najwa Kassem, who passed away unexpectedly on Thursday in Dubai.
Kassem, 52, worked as a reporter for Future TV for 11 years, before moving to Al Arabiya news channel in Dubai in 2003, out of her desire to work in a more politically specialized channel.
She published her last tweet on Dec. 31, wishing all a happy new year.
“Dear God, protect our country and keep your eye on Lebanon,” the final tweet read.
Kassem has been one of the most prominent figures in the Arab media for more than two decades. She was known for her high TV interview skills and professionalism. In 2006, she received the Best Anchor Award during the 4th Arab Media Festival in Beirut.
“It’s really shocking and saddening that Najwa Kassem left in the glory of [her] giving and youth,” outgoing Prime Minister Saad Hariri said in a tweet.
Saudi writer Abdulrahman Al-Rashed said: “Dear to us, the media’s icon Najwa Kassem, shocked us and left us in peace.”
Al-Arabiya issued a statement that read: “Al-Arabiya and Al-Arabiya Al-Hadath mourn our colleague Najwa Kassem, recalling her long journalistic journey which started with the launch of Al-Arabiya in 2003 as a broadcaster and field reporter.”
“May God have mercy on our colleague … and give her family patience and solace,” the statement added.
Major General Khalil Al Mansoori, Assistant Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police for Criminal Investigation Affairs said Kassem has died as a result of a heart attack.
He added that all indications and initial medical examination confirmed that there was no foul play in her death.
